July 23, 2007 - Msg 54315: Hey, let's all pray without ceasing and see what that does :).

M-T
July 23, 2007 - Msg 54316: Good morning, all. The Plum's temperature is down, but she has gone lame in her little hip again, won't put that left back foot to the floor. I declare, I don't know what to do with her. Just keep loving her, I guess. It just breaks my heart to see her hobbling like that, just almost unable to walk. The left seems to be the worst, but I think the right side hurts her too, because she mostly just refuses to even try to walk. I'm carrying her around the house.

I was thinking this morning about prayer, and how it benefits the one being prayed for, and then it occurred to me that it benefits the pray-er as well. It brings us into a closer relationship with the Lord, and that's a good thing!

Asa didn't say we shouldn't use his wife's name here, but I agree that it would probably be best to just use Mrs. Asa. I only posted her name because it helps to have a name when praying for someone, but it's certainly not necessary. God knows - we don't have to tell Him, and isn't that wonderful?

Well, guess I'll go cuddle my little hobbling angel. She's got her morning dose of Rimadyl on board, I hope it helps soon. Prayers for all my friends here, and thanks, Tom, for that beautiful reminder of God's grace. --Romeena
July 23, 2007 - Msg 54317: Good idea M-T.

So sorry about Sugarplum, Ro. Still praying for her...

Thanks for the poem, TOM.

Boo
July 23, 2007 - Msg 54318: Sorry to hear that Sugarplum is ailing, ROMEENA. We all have our "sore" days.

BOO: Nice to hear from you today. We're here for you when you need us.

Prayers for all.

Me-They
July 23, 2007 - Msg 54319: I really do hope and pray that's all it is with the Plum, Me-They. She does have her good days and better days, and not-so-good days, but yesterday and today have been awful. She doesn't want to move at all. It's just not like her. I have to work tonight, and am really reluctant to leave her, but have no choice.

Well, guess I'll try to catch a nap before going to work. Have a great evening, everyone. --Romeena
July 23, 2007 - Msg 54320: Ro, do you have someone that could stay at your house with her tonight? Maybe a friend would be willing to do that for you.

Thanks, Me-They, I appreciate you all so much.

Boo
July 23, 2007 - Msg 54321:
Opie: Wow, a whole nickel! For that much money I'd play with a pole cat!

Hope all a doing well today. Prayed for ya at preachin, and my what powerful preachin it was.
Maybe we all need to head to HM's county fair. Sounds like fun! But look out for them guys at the shootin gallery! ha
Have a blessed week.
MDC
July 23, 2007 - Msg 54322: Hey porch.....good to se everyone who's been here today.
Homemaker, congrats to you boys on their blue ribbons, that's great.
Romeena, so sorry the Plum is still feeling poorly...I'll continue to pray for y'all.
Boo, I'm praying for you to, my friend. I know this time must be tough, but take comfort in all the love coming your way, especially from here on the porch. You're a treasure in this world.
Me-They, good idea, I'll do my part.
Good to see Poor Horatio stopping in again. Hope to catch you for a chat soon.
MDC, I'll go with you to the fair, and I'm a crack shot, even with bent sights.
Time to put supper on the table. Y'all want some? I made a big salad and a pizza pie (with mozzarella, of course) so I'll throw in another pie if y'all will join us!
Millie
July 23, 2007 - Msg 54323: No, Boo, there's no one that could stay with her tonight. My best buddy is out of town, another very good buddy just doesn't care for pets that much (how she ever got to be my friend, I'll never know), another one is working tonight, and the other one who might is just recovering from surgery herself. There's just not anyone else I'd feel comfortable asking - you know how it is. I'm sure she'll be fine, it's just me being overly-cautious.

Once I get tonight behind me, I don't have to be back at work until Saturday, and possibly not even then. If the census drops as it typically does on Saturdays, I might manage to get canceled. Wouldn't hurt my feelings a bit.

Well, gotta get a shower, so off I go. I have to stop by the pharmacy and get some eyedrop Rx's filled - am having my other cataract surgery done on Thursday morning, and have to do pre-op drops between now and then.

Have a peaceful evening and a night filled with sweet rest - especially you, Millie. Sugarplum says hey! --Romeena
July 23, 2007 - Msg 54324: Dear God. We pray to you.
For people in all the world,
For other nations,
For other races,
For people who think differently
And live differently.
Help us to respect understand,
Lete there be no hate among nations.
Forgive all injustice.
Let wars end.
Let Your message be
Proclaimed everywhere.
Give us peace.


YELLOW RIBBONS
Yellow ribbons everywher
Yelloe ribbons show we care
For our soldiers overseas
We ask the Lord to bless them please.
To walk beside them all the way
And bring them safely back, we pray.
And let all violence finally cease
Throug God's grace. may we have peace.
Many nations suffer loss
Still we're clinging to the cross
Lord, fill our minds with streams of love
Let Thy light shine from above.
May all leaders guide the way,
Lord, hear our prayers as we display
Yellow ribbons everywhere
Yellow ribbons show we care.

TOM

July 23, 2007 - Msg 54325: Beautiful, Tom, thank you.
Mil
July 23, 2007 - Msg 54326: Thank you for those kind words Millie. You all mean so much to me. Thanks to all of you who have prayed for me. Today was a much better day.

Now if we can just get Sugarplum to feeling better...

Boo
July 23, 2007 - Msg 54327: Good evening, porch. Worked hard all day and am ready to hit the ironing board but wanted to check in and say a prayer or two for Asa & Debbie, Millie, Sugarplum & Ro, Boo, and just everyone. If ya'll are like me, you can use 'em any time of day or night. If my brain were working better, I'd start a quote-athon. Ok, let's make it easy--I'll start a Gomer quote-athon. Who can keep the Gomer quotes comin'? I'll start. All set. All set. All set.
Charlotte Tucker

"It wouldn't be right for you, Mary Grace, to go to the dance unadorned."
July 23, 2007 - Msg 54328: Barney: "Somethin' just don't smell right..."
Gomer: "No, they are serving cabbage over at the diner".....or something like that
July 24, 2007 - Msg 54329: Aw, Romeena, wished I lived nearby. I would come and watch the Plum for you. I understand the anxiety of leaving someone who isn't feeling well. Hope she gets feeling better soon.

Boo, remember brighter days are ahead.
I know what you mean about having the porch here to open up about our problems, or just to vent. It's a good place with a lot of good people.

I know I have still been on edge about my job situation. Still trying to get in touch with the lady at the resort. I suppose I will hear from them sometime, as they do let you know sooner or later. Just hoping it is in the form of a call and not a letter like last time I applied there.

If you don't mind, I'd like to share a little experience I had today while sweeping off the patio, and what I got from it(besides a sore shoulder - no, just kidding;)). Might mean something; then again, it might just be a simple occurance.
Anyway, I was using one of those big shop brooms, trying to get the leaves and things out from the edge of the landscaping bricks. And one of those big carpenter ants ran right in front(probably trying to get away from what I was already sweeping) of the broom, and I nicked him with the side of the bristles. I probably could have stopped before hitting him, but I didn't. Besides which, I didn't think it would hurt him much to get swept a little. Well, as it turns out, since he was on the edge of the bristles, and that edge was near the bricks, it kind of smushed him into the bricks.

Now, I would like to take this opportunity to say that I don't go out of my way to kill bugs outside. If they are trying to invade my house, that's another story, but actually I usually go out of my way to avoid killing them when they are outside.

Ok, back to the story.
Well, I continued sweeping the rest of the patio even as I saw him by the brick writhing in obvious pain(you know, like ants do) and looking like his whole rear end was crushed.
As I swept, I thought that maybe I should just kill him and put him out of his misery. That seems like the compassionate thing to do, right?
I don't know why, but I just didn't do it. It's not like I enjoyed looking at him spinning around in agony. In fact, it pained me to leave him like that. But leave him like that I did, for some reason.
I continued my sweeping task, but always looking back at the ant. Wondering if he was going to die, or get better. Hoping he would get better, as I felt pretty bad about hurting him in the first place.

I noticed then that his two rear legs seemed to be broken, because he wasn't moving them. But then saw that one of his problems was that there was a gob of cob-web stuck to those legs, and making it hard for him to move.
So, using the brooms bristles - the same bristles that caused him so much pain and trouble - I gently put one or two bristles in between the ant and the cob-webs, and released him from that trap. I figured it was the least I could do.

Then I went back to sweeping. When I looked again, I saw the ant trying to climb the landscaping bricks, with his two hurt legs.
Then I put the broom down and went over to watch him again.

He actually looked like he had one of those legs working better. Or at least it wasn't just dragging like the other one. Then I noticed something spectacular, in that he was just moving around like the other carpenter ants, even with his bum legs. He wasn't writhing or running home in a panic. He was just walking along, almost investigating the scene, just like any of the other ants were doing. I say he was walking, but he was now going along at a pretty good clip, just as fast as the other ants.

And that was it.
After watching him dart here and there, until finally disappearing into the bricks, I finally realized that that ant had quite a bit of gumption. And maybe a lesson for us all.

He didn't give up. Through what I'm sure was agonizing pain; through two lame legs, and his close call with the broom of death. He just went on. Back to business. Back to his obligations. Back to his home. Like nothing ever happened.
Oh sure, maybe he was cursing all the way back to the nest. I don't know, because I don't speak ant. But I think the main thing I got out of that, is that he just wouldn't give up.
Sometimes I know we are faced with problems that seem overwhelming, or painful, or maddening; but if you don't give up and don't give in to the problem, you take away its hold on you. And you give it a chance to get better. Because it can and it does get better. Just ask that ant.
True story.

I know, it started to sound like that story about the ant and the rubber tree plant - and it is the same lesson - high hopes. But dang it! That lesson is true. As God, and that ant, as my witness(es). Who knows, could be the same ant.;)

Now, you can take what you want from that, or nothing at all. But it did kind of help me feel better about my own situation. And my situation is far less terrifying than almost getting killed with a broom(unless Me-They tries to sweep the porch again ;) jk, Me-They).

Well, goodnight everyone. And sorry for the long post.

-Sterling Holobyte




July 24, 2007 - Msg 54330: Morning Y'all- Sterling,thanks for telling the story about the ant. Makes you think (didn't Gomer say that? Well,there's my Gomer quote)! Sterling,if the resort doesn't hire you,maybe Charlotte Tucker will. You write very well-have you ever considered that line of work? Still praying about your job situation & that something good will come you your way.
Prayers also for Pappa Bear,Millie,Mrs. Asa,Plum, and all who could use them-let's just say that would be all of us,wouldn't it?
Had a "Mayberry Moment" yesterday. I was talking about money with my mom yesterday when she said: "I wish somebody would take me to the bank.I want to cash my bond." Well,y'all,I just HAD to jump on that! I asked her if she bought that bond during the Confederacy and told her that if she did,it wasn't worth the paper it was printed on! She just looked at me for a minute until I said "Mayberry." Then she smiled-she got it! She's a TAGS fan too.
Anybody want grits? I'll do breakfast-come on over to my rock!
******SMILES*****
possum under a rock
July 24, 2007 - Msg 54331: Morning folks. It's a State holiday here so I got the day off work.
I want to thank all of you for your prayers and concern for Debbie and for me. It has been a rough year for us, the last few months being very hard for her. I am thankful for your prayers and good thoughts. And am thankful to Romeena for asking for your prayers for her in mt behalf. I don't know why that is so hard for me to do.

Millie, I still pray for you every night. And for your family. We don't know why we face the trials in life that we do sometimes, but I know God has a plan for us all and we just need to have the faith in him to see it through. May Gods blessings be with you all.

I think today is Romeena's birthday. Is that right Romeena? Happy birthday if I'm right. I know it's a special day for you somehow cause I wrote your name on the calender. I pray that Sugerplum is feeling better today. It's so hard to see them suffer like that. Give her a hug from her Uncle Asa.

I ask Gods blessings on each and everyone of you. You are wonderful people and great friends.

Asa
July 24, 2007 - Msg 54332: Good morning, all. Yep, Asa, you're right - today I'm 68. Doesn't seem possible, but it's true. I'm not making much of my birthdays these days, I'd much rather celebrate a milestone with a grandkid. They're just so excited about birthdays!

The Plum is still pretty sick. Her big old pretty eyes are still a little goopy, though she doesn't seem to have any fever and her lungs don't sound any worse. Still giving her the antibiotic and her Rimadyl. The main problem seems to be in her little hips, she's just so lame. I wonder if she has sciatica like I had a couple of weeks ago? I know it really was painful - finally just gradually got better, and now is gone. If her back and hip and leg feel like mine did, no wonder she's not moving much.

Well, I'm pooped. It was a long night at work, and I'm glad it's over. I'm going to hit the bed for a while and cuddle the Plum, and we'll both get a little rest. She says hey! --Romeena
July 24, 2007 - Msg 54333: Well Happy Birthday, Romeena. Hope you and Sugarplum have a good rest today and that she feels better soon. Prayers for both of you.

Sterling, you're wonderful. Thanks for sharing...

"Hey" to Possum!

Asa, thanks for checking in. We miss you but understand that you come by when you can. Continued prayers for you and your family. You're right, God has a plan...love to you and Debbie.

Better get started with the chores...

Boo
July 24, 2007 - Msg 54334: Good afternoon everyone.

Happy Birthday ROMEENA! I do hope that Sugarplum feels better real soon.

ASA: It's good to hear from you. Continued prayers for you and your wife, friend.

TOM: Where do you get such wonderful poems?

POSSUM: Stuff like that happens to me all the time. Sometimes I blurt them out and get a strange look, but especially at work I usually just keep 'em in my head. There's plenty of room in there.

BOO: Don't work too hard. I hope today is better for you. Let's get the gang together and head down to the Grand this evening for a movie. Maybe something with Gregory Peck is playing (I wonder how he'll be talking in this one?). Popcorn with salt and extra butter for me. And Raisinettes.

Good to hear from you CHARLOTTE.

STERLING: That was on profound ant you had there. Actually, it was a great story, and a great lesson we can all take to heart. Your okay, I don't care what anybody else says ;).

How's it going today, MILLIE? Sorry I missed the pizza. Mozerella is my favorite. Let's do slides under the microscope if the movie falls through, okay?

Talk to y'all later.

Me-They
"Shazam!"
July 24, 2007 - Msg 54335: AUH2O: How busy are you You-tubing today (hehe)?

M-T
July 24, 2007 - Msg 54336: Hello all, HAPPY BIRTHDAY,ROMEENA, hope the Plum is feeling better. Sterling,Is'nt it amazing what an ant can teach us all? Possum, Yeah for Mayberry moments. Asa and Mrs Asa,Millie and Boo you all are in my thoughts. Tom, you are a very touhgtful guy I really enjoy your poetry. Me-They can I have JR Mints and raisinettes mixed in my popcorn? Dr P
July 24, 2007 - Msg 54337: "Shazam"!....hahaha, I can just hear Gomer sayinng that. Hey Me-They, a movie sounds great and I LOVE raisinettes. We sure think alike. Anyway, today is a better day. Sunday was bad but Monday was better and today even better. I will just take a lesson from that ant and keep moving in the right direction.

Thanks for those prayers, Dr P. Can you drive us to the movies tonight? Jr mints and Raisinettes mixed in your popcorn?....hmmm

I have bible study at the drug rehab tonight and will be teaching them about communion. We will actually celebrate the Lord's Supper together and this will be a first for us. I would love to know you are praying for the girls (and me). Thanks,

Boo
July 24, 2007 - Msg 54338: Sure thing, BOO. Of course, you are going to go into the transubstantial theological debate, right? (Just kidding) By the way, just curious, but what are your thoughts on kids and communion?

DR P: You can have anything you want mixed in YOUR popcorn! I don't even like the food on my plate to touch.

Me-They
July 24, 2007 - Msg 54339: Good afternoon, all. After a two-hour nap, I got up and went out to lunch with two friends (been friends for over 30 years) for my birthday. Good food and LOT of laughs! There's just something about old, solid friendships - very valuable.

Sterling, I'm impressed less by the behavior of the ant than by your sensitive, thoughtful observation of that behavior, and your application of the ant's example to our own lives. Thanks, my articulate friend.

Me-They, I think of all the compelshuns that plague mankind, that "my food can't touch" thing is the most inconvenient. You poor thing, do you ever get to eat a delicious casserole? Hmmm. Come to think of it, though, I should try to cultivate that compelshun. If the food can't touch, you can't put as much on the plate, can you? Maybe I'd get thin, like I used to be.

Little Plum has decided she can leave her crate, and is hobbling around the house a little bit. I'm hoping this is the beginning of an upswing for her. Honestly, it just breaks my heart to see her in such a state. She has always been such a merry little spirit, such a ray of sunshine for me. It really hurts to see her so miserable. She just has to get better, that's all.

Well, I feel another nap coming on. Two hours just doesn't quite do it after being up since yesterday morning. Sugarplum says hey! --Romeena

"Gosh, my momma and papa just shook hands on their deal!" -Gomer
July 24, 2007 - Msg 54340: I have to run but I'll get back to ya on the kids and communion thing, Me-They....I heard a quote the other day that I really liked. It said, "If it's too good to be true, It's the GOSPEL!"

Boo
July 24, 2007 - Msg 54341: Hey, it's me again. I promise I'm not going to make a habit of copying emailed stuff onto the porch, but I thought this was so cute:
--------------
During the minister's prayer, one Sunday, there was a loud whistle from one of the back pews. Tommy's mother was horrified. She pinched him into silence and, after church, asked, "Tommy, whatever made you do such a thing?"

Tommy answered, soberly, "I've been asking God to teach me to whistle, and just then, He did!"
--------------

Hahahaha! --Romeena


July 24, 2007 - Msg 54342: Those are goo ones, BOO and ROMEENA. And ROMEENA: Food that's cooked (or prepared) together is fine, but if it comes to the table in a separate dish my feeling is it should stay thata way. I've gotten a lot better than I used to be, though. Through the years my "buffer zone" has shrunk considerably. But liquid from one thing leaking onto something else is still a no-no.

Me-They
"From the halls of Montezumer..."
July 24, 2007 - Msg 54343: Happy Birthday Romeena!

*****SMILES*****
possum under a rock
July 24, 2007 - Msg 54344: HAPPY B DAY ROMEENA
MAYBERRY DEPUTY
July 24, 2007 - Msg 54345: Thanks for all the birthday greetings, friends. You make me feel so loved! --Romeena
July 24, 2007 - Msg 54346: Romeena- me is comming by mail.

tom

July 24, 2007 - Msg 54347: Happy Birthday Dear Romeena Big Maude
July 24, 2007 - Msg 54348: Happy Birthday, Romeena. Your little boy whistling story made me laugh out loud.
- Hazel

"Spider Bite!"

July 24, 2007 - Msg 54349: Happy Birthday Ro....you seem to make the porch a great place. Birthdays.....better to forget them. Jack Benny did the best...39 and stop. But best to you.

Prayers...my list is getting longer the more I stay in my quiet part of the south Texas water soaked part.

ray
July 24, 2007 - Msg 54350: Hi All.
( PERFECT PEACE)
I sought peace...that's what I longed for most,
And yet, it alway seemed to vanish like a ghost.
And so, I prayed for peace...
I knew on God I could depend
That this turmoil in my heart
Would soon come to an end.
Then God in His wisdom dircted my gaze
Through the morning mist and early dawn's haze
To my garden wherein there gracefully grows
One yet remaining red, red rose;
Its petals dripping drenched with dew.
Ah! this was peace... I knew... Iknew!
Then, I spoke peace to fellowman,
Lest he should fall from God's own plan.
That he could live a life so free
If given peace like that given me.
That he need not search throughout the lands,
For God holds peace within His hands.

TOM

July 24, 2007 - Msg 54351: Well, hey there, Ray. Haven't seen you in a while. I'm glad you dropped by, and thanks for the kind words. I love this porch - there's room for all of us. Young and old, all walks of life, a wide range of experiences and expertise. We have electricians, homemakers (both male and female), restaurant owners, medical people, singers, a pet groomer, sales people, writers and editors, teachers and I can't begin to name them all. We even have a member who is going for the record length of a gum wrapper chain! One thing binds us all together - a love for TAGS, and out of that has grown a love and respect for each other, and that's a very good thing. I think it was only natural, though. The kind of folks who would be attracted to TAGS would just naturally be drawn to each other as well. The show appealed to people with a sense of humor, and a sense of honor and fair play, folks who can laugh at life and still play by the rules, who wouldn't hesitate to help a neighbor. You know - just good folks! I'm so proud to be a part of this porch.

Truthfully now, friends - do non-porchsters sometimes look at you a little funny when you happen to mention the porch, or TAGS? It happens to me fairly often, but the most fun is when somebody hears your comment and you see their face light up, and you know they're a closet TAGS watcher. In today's world, sometimes people are embarrassed to admit they watch a "corny" old show like that, but it's fun when they realize they're not alone, and they start to open up.

Do you suppose Andy and the others had any idea at the time of production, just how far-reaching TAGS would be? I doubt it, but I think they had a lot of fun producing it, and they just must be so happy about it now. Sure, they made money, but I think it has to be much more meaningful than that for them. Anyway, I thank God for Andy, and Don and Ron Howard, and the writers and producers. They gave us a unique heritage, something that's about as American as anything could be.

Sugarplum is feeling a bit better, still walking crooked, but she is walking. She says hey! --Romeena
July 24, 2007 - Msg 54352: Beautiful poem, Tom. You never let us down. I'm looking forward to whatever you have mailed to me. I'll watch the letter slot. --Romeena
July 24, 2007 - Msg 54353: Oh, my goodness, Romeena, msg 54351 brought a tear to my eye. How well you summed up what the porch is and what TAGS means to us. I think I'll save that little piece and reread it now and then. Thank you for being yourself.
Millie






July 24, 2007 - Msg 54354:
Wow, this porch has been BUSY! ha
Maybe we all need to take a deep breath and relax! ha again!
Thanks for the beautiful prose and poetry.
Prayers continue for all you fine porchsters.
Possum, thanks for that cute mayberry momnet.
Have a good evening,
MDC
Fred Boone: Sheriff, a man's only made of flesh and blood ya know!
July 24, 2007 - Msg 54355: Yes, beautifully said, Romeena. Now Millie, don't you start crying. If you start, I'm a goner.
- Hazel
July 24, 2007 - Msg 54356: Thanks for those words, Romeena, and on your birthday (you go, girl)! You know, sometimes family and friends make fun of me because I'm a TAGS-lover. I just tell them to "shut up" (in my nicest voice)....heehee Seriously though, I am secretly hoping that heaven is alot like Mayberry. I think it might just be...Just think, we might all be sitting together on a big porch in heaven some day.

Bible study at the rehab was sweet tonight. I had the opportunity to teach the girls about communion and we even shared communion together. There were only 10 girls and they all gave me a very big hug before they left. I love that! Sometimes I still can't believe that Jesus would let me serve in such a rewarding way. I'm such a screw-up so much of the time....good thing God can use anyone he chooses!

I was just thinking about how the kids will be going back to school in less than a month and their sleep habits have gotten so messed up. It's going to be hard to get them back on track again...better start soon. We all need to get back on a schedule and stop living like the rich and famous.

I better get off this thing and go read some Junie B Jones to Erin so she will get sleepy. Talk to you all later.

Boo
July 24, 2007 - Msg 54357: Oh, almost forgot. I was thinking about you this evening, Sterling. I was starting out onto the highway when I noticed a pretty, green grasshopper on my windsheild and I knew once I got onto the highway, he would blow off and end up as roadkill (I was thinking about you and the ant), so I pulled over and got him off in a field nearby. You have to love God's creation.

Boo
July 24, 2007 - Msg 54358: Time to hit the ironing board again but wanted to stop by long enough to wish Romeena a happy birthday. I sure hope Sugarplum gets on the mend soon. Glad to see Asa had a minute to stop by. Prayers continue for all porchsters in need.
Charlotte Tucker
July 25, 2007 - Msg 54359: Happy Birthday Ro!

Prayers for Asa & Mrs Asa, Millie, Boo, Plum - and all the rest of you porchsters out there.

Enjoyed your insightful post, Sterling.

Thanks for all the birthday wishes for my little Reagan. She swiped her cake clean of frosting and had that everywhere before she even worked on the cake inside. It was so cute.

Shame on me for not wishing congrats to Mr & Mrs Goober on the news of the impending arrival of Goober Jr. (or Goobette II). How exciting - and I enjoyed seeing pics of Goobette on your website - she's precious.

Well, it's late and I should head to bed. God bless ya'll.
AFD
July 25, 2007 - Msg 54360: Mornin' Y'all! Love what you said about TAGS & the Porch,Ro. I don't think anyone outside of my family (except the Porchsters) know how crazy I am about TAGS. I recall that my sister called me long distance to see how I was doing when the news came that Don Knotts had passed away. My daughter was the one who initially phoned me to tell me that he had died.And I just told y'all about my mom and her "bond cashing." Ha! My husband loves TAGS too. Last year we took a trip up to NC mountains and had tons of Mayberry moments. Just a few: We passed a restaurant called Kelseys (Old Man Kelsey's!) and there was a dog in a car (no he wasn't driving!) beside us on the Interstate that looked just like Old Blue-we even stopped at a gas station and ran into him sitting in the car! We had lots of incidents like those- only in Mayberry!
Today is Ray's birthday- I remember Ro and Ray discussing that they were close in birthdays & age.
Happy Birthday to Ray!
Y'all have a good Wednesday. Love to all.
P.S. Glad to see Asa on the Porch-continued prayers.
*****SMILES*****
possum under a rock
July 25, 2007 - Msg 54361: Good Morning all, HAPPY BIRTHDAY to Ray! You said it all just right,Romeena. Boo, I agree with you I hope Heaven will be like Mayberry. You all have a great day, I'm going to watch Christmas in July on QVC, I'm a sucker for anything Christmas. Dr P
July 25, 2007 - Msg 54362: Hey, me too, thanks for the tip, Dr P....I'm going to turn on QVC.

Thanks for the prayers, everyone...I feel them.

Boo
July 25, 2007 - Msg 54363: Happy day to the PORCH! AND a happy day late birthday to RO!!

Lots of activity here on the porch...that's always a good thing. Hope everyone is moving along...sterling that story of the ant is a great lesson...we've got to keep on working like there's a lifetime ahead of us, but living like the time is short. Something to think about...when you think about it.

AFD...thanks for the congrats..when God blesses...he does it abundantly! :)

Ya'll be good, be safe. We're off this weekend for a few concerts in ohio...so keep us in prayer.

Ya'll be good...prayers to all (cause we all need 'em!).

Goober...
YO!!!

p.s. Someone asked about the website...it's

www.rodburtonmusic.com

Stop by and see us real soon! :)
July 25, 2007 - Msg 54364: Prayers for you, GOOBER.

ROMEENA: I just heard about those gas explosions near Dallas. I hope it's not close to where you are.

BOO: Yeah, some screw-up you are: taking care of your husband, kids, parents, best friends' grieving kids, a bunch of messed-up girls trying to make a better life, and heaven knows who and what else. Yeah, you are some screw-up all right. Do me a favor and don't judge so harshly, because if you're a screw-up God only knows how messed up the likes of someone like me is. You are loved, and worthy of love.

Me-They
"Take a thunk under thar..."
July 25, 2007 - Msg 54365: Nice to hear from HAZEL, AFD, and CHARLOTTE, and all the rest of you usual suspects and "irregulars."

Me-They
July 25, 2007 - Msg 54366: Thanks Me-They. You know how it is, people see what is on the outside but we see what is on the inside of us; every selfish motive, etc. and sometimes that is hard to get over. I will try to focus on the goodness inside that comes from God. He loves me and that gives me (and all of us) untold value. Isn't there a verse somewhere that says that one immortal soul is beyond all cost? You asked me about children and communion and I must say that I really don't know exactly how I feel about it. I didn't give it to Sean until he professed his faith as a Christian and had some understanding of it and Erin has yet to receive it but whether it would be wrong to give it to her, I really don't know. I think it would probably be ok since Jesus so strongly told his disciples to let the children come to him. What do you think?

I'm baking cookies for my grief class at the church and it sure smells good in here. I made chocolate chip and just got the peanut butter cookies out. mmmmm, wish you could smell them (and share them). There is something so comforting about the smell of cookies baking...very Mayberry-ish.

I don't think the gas explosions are very near Romeena but I guess the traffic problems could effect her. Last I heard there are 2 interstates closed. I remember what it was like when I was in Pueblo last December and the interstate was closed. Everything practically came to a standstill.

Well, better go put some more cookies in the oven...

Boo
July 25, 2007 - Msg 54367: Romeena, there is something I wanted to say to you. We were talking this week about your husband and his memory and I wanted you to know that you have had a very positive impact on my own relationship with Bruce. The way that you have shared with us about your marriage and your grief has made me appreciate what God has given me and I don't want to take that for granted. On those nights when I go to bed and I am so tired and I feel my husband's hand reach out to me in the dark, when I am tempted to pretend to be asleep (shame on me), sometimes I think about how someday that might not happen and I might long to feel his touch again. You have made a difference in the way I think about things and how much I appreciate each day with my husband. I want to thank you for that.

Boo
July 25, 2007 - Msg 54368: A little melancholy today, BOO? Pop in "The Pickle Story." You're in my prayers.

Me-They
July 25, 2007 - Msg 54369: About communion, it's funny because it's been something I've taken as long as I can remember. Shamefully, I had never given it a whole lot of thought until a few years ago when one of the guys in my accountability group did a study on it. It realy opened my eyes to how very important it truly is and how serious we must take it. It is not something that can be done in the wrong spirit or taken lightly. That said, I won't let my children taken communion until they profess Christ and display and understanding of what that means.

My dad, who is a Catholic, and I have debated the whole representative of Christ/actually is Christ aspect of communion. Truthfully, I don't think which side you on in that belief is very important as long as you understand the why of it.

I grew up in evangelical churches that rarely did communion (couple of times a year). Some think if you do it too often (like Catholics, every service) it loses impact; others feel that we shoudl remember and partake whenever we gather together as a congregation. In our (UMC) church, we do it monthly, which I feel comfortable with. It's kind of a middle ground I guess.

Me-They
July 25, 2007 - Msg 54370: Hey porch. I'm so sorry I forgot to say yesterday HAPPY BIRTHDAY ROMEENA! Hope it was a good one.
I just got back from the dr, I'm kinda tired, so I think I'll rest awhile. More later.
Millie
July 25, 2007 - Msg 54371:
Just time for a quick God Bless today.
Hang in there all!
MDC
July 25, 2007 - Msg 54372: Hey MDC, Millie, Me-They, Mavis, and all the rest of you porchsters whose names don't begin with M. : ) Hope everyone is having a blessed evening.
Charlotte Tucker

(Gomer on his way to interview for experienced butcher's job).
Andy: You got any experience cuttin' meat?
Gomer: Nah. You reckon they'll ask me that?

July 25, 2007 - Msg 54373: Hi Porch friends. I don’t contribute much, but read daily. Feel I am starting to know many of you and appreciate you. The ‘prayers for others’ shows the concern and love here. Indeed, I am on my knees longer each evening to include each of you. One of God’s greatest gifts was prayer, the ability to communicate with Him.

Thanks for the birthday greetings, but this is one I would rather forget….turning another decade. I do give thanks that I don’t feel any older and have been blessed with great health. Will probably be put down on this one, but my last doctor visit was when I had a bad case of the flue when I was 17. Got a shot of some of penicillin and made me sicker than I was not to mention the pain the in the posterior. Our family physician was a personal friend….kids…wife etc, but he one time put me down…I always listed him on ins*rance forms etc as my doctor. Told me he wrote them back I wasn’t a patient. Other than a few vitamins (organic) have kept off any kinds of meds. I try to eat well and hate junk food places. Always consider the junk food places as selling ‘dirt’ cheap. I did like Pizza Hut in the beginning (1960’s) when they made it from scratch……but today KCF sends in everything prepared, frozen and tasteless….and no telling what else. And that probably goes for every other place on the streets trying to poison me. Got my small garden…lots of tomatoes (although splitting from the rain), squash, onions and peppers. Fortunate to have found an independent meat market….and now have found an Albertson’s 27 miles away that has organic meat. Kinda reminds me of finding this group….was googling for Earl Abel’s Restaurant. Then the ‘Tip Top’ came up. Earl’s was a real place to eat….and I even knew Earl, having sold him his background music back in the early ‘60’s. We still eat at the Tip Top a couple of times a month. If you aren’t there by 11:10 plan to stand in line. As if you don’t know, I love to eat but good food doesn’t over load you……5’ 10” and 170lbs….but my belt line is growing.

Even after turning the seventh decade mark, plan to keep on working. There is no one to replace me. I enjoy it and it keeps me going. Social Security can ($%##@**!!#). Never forget when Jo Ann left this world for a better place, got a letter from them….send two copies of marriage certificate, notarized death certificate and what all else and they would send a check of $256. She had worked all her life putting into it. No way for Medi-Care either. I don’t plan on being ill.

Will at least share something some of you can use. For a mosquito repellant: 8 oz water, two teaspoons vanilla, one teaspoon orange oil. Sprinkle on you and you will smell like a cookie. But, the critters should leave you alone.

My longest post….but to have concern and love for all here.

ray

July 25, 2007 - Msg 54374: Thank you, Ray. Glad you are in good health and feeling well. Have you tried that mosquito repellant? Does it work?

It is raining like crazy here in South Texas and the rain kind of matches my mood this evening. I am feeling kind of blue, but that's ok, it's all part of the process of getting better in time. I have Karen's two children here with me tonight and they seem to be doing very well. I sure miss her when the kids are here, though. In my mind I keep feeling like she is going to come and pick them up like she always did when they visited. It's still kind of hard for me to get my mind around her being gone. Thanks to all of you for your many prayers. They mean the world. I appreciate you all being here for me at this time, and hope you know I will be here for all of you when you are going through things. You're right, Ray. Prayer is a great gift.

Hope Sugarplum is feeling better this evening...

Boo
July 25, 2007 - Msg 54375: Boo, the cookie repellant works for me...but each has their own chem make up. Let me know how it works for the CC bomb divers.

Someday can chat about MO-Ranch. Remember it well way back in high school days.
ray
July 25, 2007 - Msg 54376: Evening, ray and Boo. Good to see y'all. I'm on some meds that are making it hard to sleep, so I'm just cruising the internet trying to get tired. Maybe I should do some jumping jacks, haha.
Oh, well, snack tonight is oreos and milk.
Prayers for everyone.
Millie
July 25, 2007 - Msg 54377: Hey all - stopping by from the fair. . .the elephant ear was good tonite! Ha - like I will pay $5 for one! They smelled good though!

Goat show is tomorrow. . .it will be a busy day!
Fair and fun go together, ribbons and trophies are the extra. So - we have had a great fair already because it has been tired but fun!

homemaker
July 25, 2007 - Msg 54378: Millie, especially prayers for you tonight. You are so special and so brave.
ray
July 25, 2007 - Msg 54379: Thanks, ray. You're special too.
Millie
July 25, 2007 - Msg 54380: Good evening, all. Thanks, everyone, for all the kind birthday wishes. I appreciate it, sure enough. Ray, hope your birthday was a great one, too. You're two years ahead of me - how is it at that "advanced age"? (teehee)

Boo, your words make me feel very humble. I'm very happy that my stories of my marriage and the process of grieving his loss have been helpful to you. It's wonderful when something good can come from one's experiences. My Dale was a very special man in my estimation, just as every man should be a hero in his wife's eyes. One of his favorite sayings was, "Well, whatever makes her happy just tickles me plumb to death!" He lived that attitude, and believe me, he made me happy, so he must have been just delirious!

My landscaper friend, Joe, and his 2-man crew were here today, and we put in 8 hours of work in my yard, pulling weeds, pruning roses and everything else, and planting some new "bloomers" to replace things that drowned or died from lack of sun during the extended rains. There are over 20 trashbags out at the street! I'm sunburned, dehydrated, and bone-tired, but my yard looks beautiful again. It was a cryin' mess before - weeds three feet tall, everything all overgrown and 'way too rowdy, just a mess! Sure looks better.

Tomorrow I must be up before 5, have to be at the surgery center at 6, to have my other eye surgery done. You may remember I had a cataract removed and a ReStor lens implant done a few months ago - well, tomorrow I get the other eye done, and should have 20/20 vision in a few days, after everything settles in. It will be wonderful to have that dirty yellow haze gone completely. One eye done has helped, but to have both - it will be just great! The wonders of modern medicine!

Well, guess I'd better go get some sleep. A friend is here staying the night, in order to drive me out there in the morning. Actually, I could drive to the center, but they won't let me drive myself home, so my friend is going with me. Friends - what a blessing! Sugarplum says hey! --Romeena
July 25, 2007 - Msg 54381: I agree, Ray, I think Millie would be the definition and personification of courage. --Romeena
July 25, 2007 - Msg 54382:
Hey Folks

Ray-I loved reading your post. It is a great feeling thinking someone you don't even know is praying for you. I worked at Pizza Hut while I was in college. After I graduated, I listed on my resume that I was a chef at one of the world's most famous restaurants, they fellow that interviewed me laughed about it but he recommended that I take it off, I did. I have to tell Mrs. auh2o about your mosquito repellent.

Boo-Hang in there buddy. Praying for you.

Goober- Congratulations on your nomination! Loved the site; I have it bookmarked in my TAGS folder.

M-T Did you watch the YouTube debate? I thought Barack made Hillary look Presidential. He doesn't look ready to sit at the adult table yet.

God Bless the Troops,
auh2o

"These are the boys of Pointe du Hoc. These are the men who took the cliffs. These are the champions who helped free a continent. These are the heroes who helped end a war."
July 25, 2007 - Msg 54383: Sorry I missed wishing you a happy birthday, Ray. What a blessing it is to have your health!

Prayers for your surgery, Ro. Hope Plum is doing better today.

How'd the party go for little Veda, M-T?

Good to see you Millie, and I'll take some of those Oreos (especially if they're the ones with the chocolate centers - yum!). Prayers being said for you as well.

Prayers for all the rest of you as well - I believe I'll get off the 'puter and get some shuteye. Catch ya'll later.
AFD
July 26, 2007 - Msg 54384: Thank you, Auh2o, Ray and all my porch friends for the many prayers. I feel like I could use a good cry but I am trying hard to get all 4 kids to go to sleep! The girls were so hyper and full of giggles that it was almost impossible and the boys are laughing their heads off about f*rts and such (you know how adolescent boys are). It's good to hear them laughing, though.

Prayers for your eye procedure tomorrow, Ro. How exciting it will be to have clear vision in both eyes. You are very special to all of us and we love you.

Guess the Plum is doing better since Ro didn't mention anything.

I should be getting to bed. I could use a good night's sleep. Goodnight to everyone.

Boo

PS-Millie, why don't you try Barney's sobriety test where you hop on one foot? It seemed to make him real tired.
July 26, 2007 - Msg 54385: Good morning porch pals. I hope all is well for everyone.

Happy belated birthday Ray. I hope it was a good one for you.

Thank you one and all for your prayers my friends. I can't express in words how much it means to me and my wife. We feel of them and of your love for us.

Millie, I want to echo the thoughts expressed by many here of how special and strong you are. A real inspiration. I love your positive attitude.

In all that's been going on I don't know if I ever told you that we are expecting our second Grandbaby in December. We just found out it's going to be another girl. We are so excited. Mariah (our first Grandbaby) is 18 months now and getting into everything. She is such a blessing to us all. Glad Veda and Reagan are doing well and congrats to Goober. Possum, how is our little Laci doing? Did your Daughter get all moved?

Romeena, is Sugarplum doing better? I hope so.

Boo, hang in there and keep the faith. You strike me as a very sincere and wonderful Christian woman who is just trying to do the right thing. I have no doubt you will be blessed for your life.

Nice to see you Charlotte Tucker. Are your feet asleep?

Best get to work and show the world I mean business.

Asa
July 26, 2007 - Msg 54386: HI ALL .
Will it look like the rain we was going to git, just pass by us last night.

tom

July 26, 2007 - Msg 54387: Good afternoon everyone. Getting hotter and more humid here. We've been enjoying a mild, though very dry, summer so far; guess it had to end sometime.

RAY: Very nice post. Happy belated birthday! You won't get any grief from me, just a gentle suggestion that even though you don't plan on being sick an annual check-up is a great idea. Medicine has come a long way since you were 17. The Lord takes care of us but expects us to use the sense he gave us and do our part.

AUH2O: I saw bits and pieces of them and agree with your assessment. That Obama sure is charismatic, though; Hilary, not so much (that's an understatement). In fact, I've been trying to think of who she reminds me of when it comes to delivery style and I finally figured it out: Nixon. It's that same uncomfortable, stilted sort of thing. Obama came off with one answer earlier this week in SC that I thought was a good "save;" when someone asked him about reparations for slavery, he said he was for them and the best way to pay them was to put more money in classrooms. I think reparations are a joke (not a funny one, either) but I think his answer showed some savvy considering the rock and hard place he must feel he's between trying to get the vote of various segments of the Democratic party.

I lost all respect for Edwards when I found out that though one of his cornerstone arguments is against the dealings of the subprime lending market, he was a director and consultant of a company that owns one of the largest subprime lending outfits until he started his campaign. There are other irregularities, too.

I'm still waiting for Newt to throw his hat in the ring. The Republicans in the race now all remind me of the cast of a bad movie.

ASA: Hey to you and congrats on your upcoming grandbaby.Feet asleep? I wonder what causes that?

AFD: The party went great. CHad's b-day is coming up on the 8th but we're not doing a party this year since we are leaving on vacation the next day. We're visiting an aunt in Arkansas. We'll be laying over your way, ROMEENA, at Dallas/Fort Worth, so we'll hang out window and yell "hey!"

Me-They