August 24, 2007 - Msg 55229: Hello Porch Pals. I have a question. Does anyone know where to find a picture/print of the end of the show when the credits are rolling? You know, the trees around Myers Lake. It's so peaceful. Thanks! CM
August 24, 2007 - Msg 55230: homemaker, it's hard, isn't it? I'm trying to decide whether to just leave the Plum's things out and let little Starr just move into them, or whether to put them away. I may just let the Plum pass her things on to the little one. She doesn't need them now.

We're about to go out to dinner, then back and get things packed up, as we have to vacate the house by ten in the morning. I've had a very nice time, the beach is beautiful, the house and pool were extremely nice, and the company was pleasant. As I said, I'm not really looking forward to going home, but sooner or later, I must, so tomorrow is the day. I probably won't be back by the porch until I get home, so once again, thanks to everyone for your patience with my grieving, and your kindness. Tou're the cats, every one of you! --Romeena
August 24, 2007 - Msg 55231: Er, that's You're the cats! Drat this laptop keyboard! --Romeena
August 24, 2007 - Msg 55232: HEY YALL!....hey new comer CM,,,Romeena and all...Asa you been behaving?...U 2 auh20,M-t I got to do alot of reading...been at the Lake for 2 days...caught us some fish...Big Maude you doing OK?..Millie you doing OK?.hey Rev!..hey ray possum,hazel,md,mdc,bwb and all ...im back on the job...who has been cooking?....breakfast will be ciuntry ham eggs your way,hashbrowns,cheese toast,grits and coffee...oj...prayers...got to work at 6 am so 4:30 in the morning comes early.....SPOT
August 24, 2007 - Msg 55233:
Boo-Yes I have done some searching on "Death Masks" very interesting, try this site
http://thanatos.net/galleries/categories.php?cat_id=3

MDC-What in the world to you need an oven for? That's pretty neat about 'AZ Bruce.'

Dr P-Thanks for the heads-up. I didn't hear about Burns WWII documentary, I loved his Civil War one also.

Mr Wheeler- I just registered over to Miss Crumps. I'll look for ya in class. If I'm late tell her the dog ate my homework.

Hey-Big Maude, Asa, Homemaker,Romeena, Rev, SPOT, P-H, and CM.

auh2o
August 24, 2007 - Msg 55234:
Hey spot, I'm always behaving, it's Me-They that gets me in trouble. Good to have ya back.

auh2o
August 24, 2007 - Msg 55235:
Welcome CM- Wow, you swept the porch. Good job.Have you tried Amazon or E-bay? Also, there is a way to still-frame a dvd and somehow make a picture of it, but I am not sure of the process.
Hope that helps, as i agree, it is a nice scene.
Dr. P- Have you heard of the small town of Sheffield? I have some friends who live there.
Auh2o, you are right, we can fry our food right on the sidewalks, ha. I was trying to do some Colt-like funnies. This is when I like to look at that pic on Romeena's photo site of your snow-covered back yard, or is that asa's??
Ro- very funny story about the "sans-shorts" incident!
When I was a paperboy, I arrived at the paperstation one cold dark winter morning, I filled the bags, that were draped over my handlebars, with the thick Phoenix Sunday papers. I even had to balance a few papers on top of the handlebars. I carefully mounted the bike, got a push start from one of the guys, and my front wheel proceeded to hit a rock in the middle of the sidewalk, and ....splat, down goes my top-heavy bike, all the papers sliding out into the street, and me, this 11 year old kid, laying on top of it all! Took me another 30 minutes to get it all back in order, and to finally start my route! Thanks for sparking that "funny now, but not funny then" memory!!
Ya all have a good rockin' evening. Dont rock on Spot's tail.
God bless,
MDC

August 24, 2007 - Msg 55236:
Barney: Oh come on Andy, even teenagers don't talk about the weather.
August 24, 2007 - Msg 55237: Thanks for sharing the story about David, Romeena. I will be sure and tell it to Sean! (poor David)! I will be praying for you as you return home. I know it will be very hard for you, but I believe God will be with you to give you the strength you need. I find it comforting to think of you passing on Sugarplum's things to little Starr but whatever you decide to do with them will be best, I'm sure. Jesus is near to the broken-hearted so lean on Him and pour your heart out to him when you get home, Ro. I believe He will help your heart to heal.

Yes REV, Sean is alot of fun. Sometimes when I am driving and he is telling me some story, I get to laughing so hard I should pull over. He and I do have alot of fun together. I was really happy to hear about your dear daughter treating you to a special dinner. What a blessing she must be to you (and you to her).

I drove to Houston and back today with Sean (and Dad tagged along). That's a 3 hour plus trip each way and I was up at 5am. I am "bleary-eyed". I wanted to share with the civil war buffs something dad told me. He said that one of his relatives on his mom's side fought for the south and was captured by the north. They were getting ready to hang him and had the noose around his neck when he showed him some kind of masonic sign (he was a mason) and they let him go free. That's the only civil war story he remembered about any of his relatives.

Better hit the hay before my head hits the keyboard. I will check out that site you posted, Auh2o, thanks! Goodnight Mayberry....I'll chat more tomorrow!

Boo
August 24, 2007 - Msg 55238: Oh, hey there MDC. Hope you have a peaceful sleep.

Boo
August 24, 2007 - Msg 55239:
Hello porch family....so good to see you all tonight.

MDC...That is amazing how you ran across someone that lives so close to you.

Ro...now that's a funny story about your son. I can just picture that.
Also...prayers as you return home.

Welcome CM...so good to have you stop by the porch. Be sure to come on back often and sit a spell. You won't find any sweeter people any where. And we sure eat good here too.

Speaking of eating...Spot....when is the fish fry?

You all have a good night. Prayers for all!
-REV.
August 24, 2007 - Msg 55240:
Boo...Those little rides with Sean will be very special memories in the future. Today I was transfering my daughter's baby tapes over to dvd. Oh it just kills me looking at all those videos. Thank God for all the memories but I get so emotional when it comes to my girl. I treasure all those times.
Take care Boo and have a good night.
-REV.
August 25, 2007 - Msg 55241: SPOT, Thanks for the breakfast. It sure was good.
BIG JERRY
August 25, 2007 - Msg 55242: Hey all...very busy with storms here at work...crews left at 4 and more came in at 6 am...im gona be here till late and then back early...lots of left over outages...storms again today and tomorrow...will someone cook today...?...UPS me a plate..I will need my strength!...SPOT
August 25, 2007 - Msg 55243: I understand, REV. I haven't looked at any old videos of the kids in 2 or 3 years and I want to get my transferred, too. Maybe once we get into our own place and sort through a few things....

I was too tired to tell you all about Sean's dr's appointment yesterday. He is already having a real struggle at school with his work and the doc explained that the ADD/Dyslexia is part of the whole package of things that go along with the Tourette Syndrome and that alot of times kids can get by until they get to middle school and junior high, and then as the work gets more difficult, they can't keep up. That seems to be what is going on with Sean. I was so proud of him at the dr's, though. He told the doc, "It's very hard for me but I continue to work diligently even though I am very frustrated. I want to learn". I kind of sat there with my mouth open because I didn't realize he felt that strongly about wanting to learn at his age. The doc sent home some forms for his teacher to fill out next week (and some for me to fill out) to do some testing of his weaknesses. He mentioned something about the front part of his brain not allowing him to process certain things so he has a hard time remembering (spelling and multiplication, etc). He mentioned medication right away and that scares me a little. Please pray for our decision making in Sean's behalf. The reason we drive all the way to Houston every 3 months is because this doctor/clinic at Texas Children's Hospital is supposed to be the best of the best. He is what's called a Psycho-pharmacologist and should be up on the best methods to treat Sean's problems but I hate to add another drug to the solution. We are also going to have to go about getting him some specialized help and I don't know how the school he is attending now will deal with that. I am going to get my ducks in a row and make an appointment to talk to the school administrator and Sean's teacher about his problems and what we can do about them. It may require making some modifications in his curriculum and I pray they are open to that. So far the school seems to be more open than the last one...we'll see. I don't want to go back to homeschooling but I may have to. Please pray for him/us. I need the Lord to guide us and give Bruce and I wisdom, and please pray for favor with the school administrator,etc. Thank you so much, my friends. I can't tell you what an effect your prayers have made over the last several years. I have seen the Lord do so much on Sean's behalf. I want to tell you that so many things in Sean's life are going very right, like his Tourette symptoms (the terrible jerking he used to have) are nearly gone entirely. He has an occasional eye twitch and that's it...big change from having to hold him down to keep him from hurting himself a year ago. Also, I have seen a spiritual growth over the summer that is really neat. He loves to go to church and listens to christian music. He seems to have a firm grip on the truth for one so young and I am so thankful. You know, sometimes I am tempted to wonder what it's like to be a parent of children who have no physical/neurological problems. I wonder if those parents think about what a blessing it is? Of course, I never asked God to make everything easy for my children or me. I just want them to know the Lord and serve Him and God has shown Himself to BE God so many times through our struggles. I am very thankful to Him for everything (including all of you).

Here is is Saturday morning and I am up at 6am! I really wanted to sleep in but just couldn't. Maybe I will try again while everyone else is still asleep...

Prayers for Romeena as she goes home today...

Boo
August 25, 2007 - Msg 55244: Oh, poor SPOT...I'm sending you a plate ASAP....hope things get easier soon. God bless you for the good work you do!

Boo
August 25, 2007 - Msg 55245: Thanks for the plate Boo...what is it?..ha ha...SPOT
August 25, 2007 - Msg 55246: SPOT you can keep the storms there, just send a little rain to cut down on all the heat here.

TOM

August 25, 2007 - Msg 55247: Romeena, I hope that things are well with you today.
Boo, thanks for the personal testimony in your message this morning. It was very touching, to say the least.
Well, off to a family (wife's)reunion.
A pig is the guest of honor , or I should say the main course for this function.
BIG JERRY
August 25, 2007 - Msg 55248: You're welcome, Big Jerry. Glad you clarrified that the pig was the main course...at first I was wondering which of your wife's relatives you were talking about....just kidding..heehee. Hope you have a great time. Stay cool.

Boo
August 25, 2007 - Msg 55249: Good Evening Porch,
This is a quick rock tonight. We have had a pretty enjoyable day. Nick was at the mall with a friend, so Bryan, Bryson and I ran some errands. I'm going to try making homemade ice cream after supper tonight. Anyone want to give it a try? I bought the ice cream attachment for my KitchenAidHD. Y'all have a great evening and happy Sabbath tomorrow!
Blessings,
~Lucy
August 25, 2007 - Msg 55250: Good evening, all. I'm home now, after a nice flight from Destin. I was doing fine until I walked out in the back yard to check on things, and saw that little mound of dirt beneath my window. I pretty much fell apart, came in the house and have been pretty teary-eyed ever since. I guess it will get better in time. Her little things are all over the house, toys here and there, the strategically-placed piddle pads I had put down for her when her mobility left her, her little dish in the kitchen - it all hurts. I've got to do better than this, and I suppose I will in time. I just can't believe she's gone, and can't believe I miss her so much. I really loved that little dog. --Romeena
August 25, 2007 - Msg 55251: Hey Lucy, good luck with the ice cream. Glad you had a good day. You deserve it!

Wonder how Romeena is doing? Still praying for her...

Boo
August 25, 2007 - Msg 55252: To me friend Romeena.

GOD'S SONG
GOD SOMETIME TAKES US PLACES
THAT WE CANNOT UNDERSTANT.
BUT THEN WE START TO WONDER
IF IT'S PART OF A BIGGER PLAN.
THE PAIN WE FEEL IS NEEDED
SO THAT WE CAN LEARM AND GROW
TO BE A BETTER PERSON
AND TO GO WHERE WE MUST GO .
LIFE IS SO UNCERTAIN
AND THE ROAD IS SOMETIMES LONG.
BUT GOD, IN ALL HIS WISDOM,
WILL TURN SORROW INTO SONG.
TOMORROW'S PLAN IS UNVEILING
AS SURE AS THE SUN SETS ABOVE.
THE SONGS UNSUNG ARE STILL WAITING...GOD WANT US TO SING OF HIS LOVE.

YOU ARE IN ME PRAYER
TOM

August 25, 2007 - Msg 55253: A great big cyber hug for you Romeena. That first time back to the house was the worst for me. It will get better and your faith in God will see you through. Bless you and stay strong.

Love Asa
August 25, 2007 - Msg 55254: Thank you, Asa, and thank you, Tom, for all you've said and done. That poem is beautiful. --Romeena
August 25, 2007 - Msg 55255:
Hello porch family.

Spot....don't work too hard buddy. We will be sure to send you some grub. Mrs Rev and I went to AppleBees tonight. Had Shrimp and Steak Parmesan with smashed pottatos and steamed vegies. I'll call and get a takeout for you and bring it on over.
By the way...Braves just lost to St. Louis. Oh well, back to the race.

Boo...I know things will work out for Sean.

Lucy...homemade icecream sounds good. I'll stop by for a bowl on my way to take Spot his plate at work.

Ro...Oh I feel the hurt for you. Prayers are being prayed for you as I post.

Tom...that poem is SO comforting. Thank you for always being "on time." I hope that you know that God is using you to help others in the poems that you post.

Well folks, I better get ready for bed. Got a concert (here in SC) in the morning so got to get up early. Prayers for all the porch family and have a great worship day.
-REV.

August 25, 2007 - Msg 55256: Romeena, don't try to force the issue. Time does heal wounds. Each person is different. It may take days, weeks, months, or even years. Allow it to diminish at its own pace. Maybe a photographic montage on a wall to celebrate Sugarplum's life would help. Concentrate only on happy or funny memories.

Dr. P, although I have seen Ken Burn's Civil War and Baseball documentaries, I was not aware of a World War 2 documentary. Thanks for the information.

from Poor Horatio
August 25, 2007 - Msg 55257: I'm new to chattin' - want to be a part and sit on the porch with you fellas.
August 26, 2007 - Msg 55258: Thanks, PH. Actually, I have photos of her all over the house, and a lovely watercolor of the two of us - me holding her in such a way that her face is alongside mine, little topknot at a jaunty angle. It's beautifully done by a very talented artist in Florida, commissioned by my son. Even the calendar here in my office is made up of pictures of her, a gift from my dear daughter-in-law. I have t-shirts with her picture on the front, very cute pictures taken by the same DIL - a talented photographer. I know in time I'll wear those shirts again, and enjoy the pictures. I'll have little Starr to enjoy and to spoil, and the pain of losing my Plum will ease a little, but I know I'm always going to miss her very much. I wouldn't bring her back into the awful state she endured in her very last days, and I know I did right by her when I chose to end her pain, but it still hurts, so very much. The loving support I've received from all of you has made a tremendous difference, and I thank you - everyone!

Welcome to unsigned #55257 - this is indeed a friendly and loving place to visit. Grab yourself a name and a rocker and join right in. Always room for one more. --Romeena
August 26, 2007 - Msg 55259: Hey new setter..ye Rev Braves are on the slide...thanks for the grub...back to norm here at work for a while..hey Romeena welcome back!...hey Tom,possum,hazel,horatio,boo,lucy,maude,mavis,my buddy asa,big J,mdc,md,bwb,millie,ray,miller and all....Rev Carl won the race I hear...had to hit the ironing board early...tried to stay awake but fell asleep with the tv on!...breakfast will be the Big Boy Shoneys breakfast bar!...come one come all and eat!...on Asa!...I will get the door for the ladys!...let me get all these comp"s logged on here at work I will try to keep the Church lights on!...will catch me a sermon on the tube...and will hit the late meeting tonight after work....prayers to all even if ya think ya dont need it!...SPOT
August 26, 2007 - Msg 55260: Good Sabbath porch.
Just wanted to pop in and see how you are doing Romeena. I will offer you up a special prayer today at preachin. I know how hard this is for you.

Looks like I'm buying breakfast so dig in and enjoy yourselves. Try out those meatballs Homemaker. That's what a meatball is supposed to taste like. They are not supposed to bounce either.

Hey to the newcomer. Grab yourself a name and a rocker and have a set. Watch your toes, I'm rockin forward.

Auh2o, who's gonna be our nominee? You think Thompson? It would help though if he would at least announce he is a candidate. You think Newt will enter later? I think he will unless there is a clear frontrunner. My thinking is the nominees from both partys are gonna be from New York. Rudy vs Shrillary. I like our chances in that one.

Guess I'll go read the paper and the funnys.

Asa
August 26, 2007 - Msg 55261: Romeena-I forgit to tell you that one on the rose busch it growgood it had three rose at frist and it going to have five on it.
But one did not makit, but will hope it will take hold next year.

TOM

August 26, 2007 - Msg 55262: Afternoon porch, hope all is well this Sunday.
Back from church services, going to try and rest some today but I have a few chores I need to attend to as well. We had a little rain this morning before church, but now it is clear and sunny. Lots of race traffic leaving the area today. I will cook supper tonight: meat loaf, mashed potatoes, green beans, sliced tomatoes, slaw and rolls. Chocolate layer cake for dessert. Sweet or unsweet tea to drink, kool aid or lemonade was well. see you all later. Prayers for all. Big Maude
August 26, 2007 - Msg 55263: Good Sabbath everyone. I'm at work today, though I can't say hard at work. It's still oppressively humid hear but they say it's going to break tomorrow. Then it'll just be hot.

ROMEENA: I agree with HORATIO; try not to force the issue. Such decisions can be made in due time. Right now, just take one step at a time. And don't get down on yourself for falling apart. It's your bain's way of reminding you that you dfon't want to be too tightly wound. You remain in my prayers.

DR. P & HM: Ken Burns' documentary on WWII is supposed to be very, very good. The controverary came from the fact that it evidently gave short shrift to Hispanics who fought. While this might seem to be heading down the politically correct alley, there is some justification in the criticism since a significant number of Hispanics did fight for the U.S. and the film does cover other major ethnic groups. However, in Burns' defense, the documentary only follows the story of a handful of veterans from several towns in the U.S. and none of them happened to be Hispanic. And, the criticism came after the film's editing, when it really was too late to do much (unless the entire film was reworked) except tack something onto it or something which Burns refused. So, in retrospect Burns admits he should have considered this (and he should have) and those who criticised late in the game should have made suggestions to Burns much. much earlier. After all, this film has been known to be in the works for several years now. Anyway, PBS is going to do a special one-hour sometime during the week of the showing of the multi-part documentary, which I think is a fine compromise.

LUCY: Can I have a dish?

Have a great day.

Me-They
August 26, 2007 - Msg 55264: BOO: Sometimes, I just don't know what to say to you. No, I don't fully comprehend just how fortunate I am not to have to go through many of the things you do in raising my children. But, I wonder if your kids fully understand just how very, very blessed they are to have been placed with a mom like you? God always knows what He is doing.

Me-They
August 26, 2007 - Msg 55265: Howdy, just thought I would sit a spell and get some rockin in. Hope all is well with all.

BIG JERRY
August 26, 2007 - Msg 55266:
Hey Folks

Asa-Yeah, I bet Rudy would beat Hillary. For a lady with so many accomplishments, why is it so hard to name any? I think it will be Rudy or Fred, I like Newt, if I could pick one to run, it would be him. But, I bet his negatives in the polls would match Hillary's. And the right really needs to win this time. The left, aside from a couple, just doesn't get it. We are at war, have been since the 70's, with these thugs. For all of Rudy's short comings I think he would handle terrorism just fine. Ya know, I like W, although I thought after 9-11, he was gonna be so much more. What ever happened to that guy that said, “I can hear you, the rest of the world can hear you and the people who knocked these buildings down will hear all of us soon.” There are something's that I don't care for regarding John McCain but I think if he had been President on 9-11 this battle in Iraq would be just about finishing up now.

"new to chattin" Welcome and have a seat.

Boo-As for M-T comments, I'd like to say, ditto.

auh2o
August 26, 2007 - Msg 55267: I can't disagree with much of your candidate comments, AUH2O. (Is it me, or is it getting kinda creapy that we've been agreeing a lot lately?)

I'll have to agree with Ann Coulter on her comment that if the earth turned on its axis and she was forced to vote for a Democrat, she would cast her vote for Hillary over the rest of the lot. More and more I find myself (and I never thought I would say this) hoping that Hillary ends up the Democratic candidate. Can you imagine the Democratic alternative? Edwards? Obamma? That'll keep you awake at night.

I, too, would like to see Newt run, but you're absolutely correct that his negative numbers doom his chances. Getting a Democrat to vote for him would be impossible. And it's a shame, too, because I'm sure there are many issues on which they'd agree with his good sense. I will say that, besides his handling of post-9/11, what qualifies Rudy? I certainly don't agree with his social agenda and am not convinced he is the anti-terror warrior he has been touted. After all, where was he between the first tower bombing and 9/11? I just don't know.

Me-They
August 26, 2007 - Msg 55268: Thanks for supper Maude I will bring a jar of my peppers...Yall root for my Warner Robins Ga. Little League team in the world series today at 3:30...we are in the big dance for the second year in a row...Columbus Ga. won it all last year...we play Japan today...Rev we may have to draft some of the Little League boys for the Braves if they dont pick it up....slow here at work..lights are on..I get off at 6 and lake bound tomorrow..see yall at supper!...prayers..hey TOM,m-t,auh20,my buddy Asa,possum,mdc,hazel,Millie local lucy and all...SPOT
August 26, 2007 - Msg 55269:
Romeena- take it one day at a time. The good Lord is with you the whole way. Prayers continuing for you dear.
Boo mentioned fillin "out" a form. This is one of those English dilemmas that my silly mind ponders sometimes. Don't we really fill "in" a form? haha
TOM- your poem was super. Good words for us all. Thanks
I think I would rather have no president at all than have Hillary and Bill back in. I lean more toward Romney every day. I think he has the wherewithall to beat any other candidates, and tho he has flipped on some issues, havent we all thru the years? Look at once-democrat Ronald Reagan, for example, God rest his soul.
REV, spot who won the race at the newly surfaced Bristol track.? I heard that casey Khane had the pole.
Well, enjoy your Sunday afternoon.Aunt Bee is going to make ice cream.
Mr. Darlin's Cuz (MDC)
August 26, 2007 - Msg 55270: "Yup, that's the plan, home, take a little nap, then over to Thelma Lou's for a little TV."
August 26, 2007 - Msg 55271: My, what a kind and sweet thing to say, Me-They. It brought tears to my eyes and I needed it today. Sean has had a particularly rough day today. His anxiety seems to be running amok and he is very worried about school. Some of the things he says are so heartbreaking. He says he hates the way he looks and people make fun of him. He has "man-boobs" and is constanly being made fun of. The other kids like to pinch and poke him and make fun of him and I know it hurts him. The mom in me wants to pull him out of school and homeschool him again to try and protect him but he wants to be in school with other kids and I understand that. It's tough right now. I've got to help him lose weight and get into shape. Anyway, I need to put it all in God's hands and go on. Again, thanks for the kinds words (and you, too Auh2o). You guys are a real encouragement to me.

Gotta go help Sean with some homework. Talk to you later!

Boo
August 26, 2007 - Msg 55272: Well, I did it. It took me four hours, but I finally ordered a marker for the Plum's little grave. It will be a flat river rock, engraved with her name and a brief sentiment. I have cried a river of my own, but it's done. --Romeena
August 26, 2007 - Msg 55273: Romeena- Oh my dear, sweet friend, I also pray it will get easier for you in time. I think a marker would be special. Honestly, I think you should take all of her things, put them in a box, and get new ones for Starr. When will Starr get to come home with you?
Boo- I understand wanting to protect your kids. Nick has lost about 20 lbs this summer and he thought that the kids wouldn't make fun of him this year, but even though he's pretty thin he has small love handles and man-boobs. Bryson gets made fun of for being white and not reading well. Eventually, they have to figure things out for themselves. Definitely stay abreast of the situation with Sean, his teachers, and possibly have him visit the guidance counselor at school. If you feel that he is being harmed in any way then take action. I have to remind myself of this, but we are training our children to go out into the world without us.
Me-They & Rev- Sure, come and have some. It's only vanilla, but tomorrow I plan on trying strawberry.
Me-They- Too bad you have to work on Sunday's.
Sterling- How are things going?
Tom- Are ya okay with all of the flooding? My in-laws town was flooded, but they're okay since they live on a hill.
Spot- It's cool that our Little League teams are in the finals. I didn't get to see it today. Did they win?
Auh20/Me-They- Have either of you read any of Newt's historical fictions? He's from GA, ya know. I think his nose is weird though. Hillary really needs to start wearing some skirt suits because she looks too manish. If Guiliani can't get his personal life in order, I think 2 or 3 marriages then how can he run the country? I have issues with how Elizabeth Edwards runs all over the place with 2 small children at home and she having cancer and all. Mr and Mrs Obama were listed in Vanity Fair's best dressed couple awards, but he just seems a little to air head like. Thompson reminds me of his fellow Tennesseean, President Old Hickory, and he was nearly impeached. So far, none of them have my vote.
Hey Big Maude- I'm glad things are going well for you.
Hey to Mavis, Hazel, MDC, Poor Horatio, and all I missed. Have a Mayberry week!
Blessings,
~Lucy M.
August 26, 2007 - Msg 55274:
Hello porch family. We got some much needed rain today. I can't remember when we last had rain.

Well the concert today went great. We had a real good turn out but most of all our Lord was there!

Welcome new visitor. Be sure to grab a name and hop on into the porch family.

Spot...have fun at the lake. Catch us some more fish.

MDC...Carl Edwards won the race. He had a very strong car. Casey had a great car also. Lead a big part of the race but just didn't have enough for Carl.

Boo....still praying for Sean. That is such a tough thing to watch as a parent.

Lucy...I'll be there for the strawberry ice cream also. Thanks!

Prayers for all the porch family. Have a blessed night.
-REV.
August 26, 2007 - Msg 55275: Oh Romeena, I know there are no words to say...prayers continue for you, my friend.

Thanks Lucy, I know we can't protect them from everything, sometimes I just wish I could take a break from it all for awhile. Even in Mayberry, Opie had to face the bully, didn't he? I guess sometimes it seems like Sean has to deal with too much at his young age and I struggle with when I need to step in a relieve the pressure and when I have to just let things happen and use them as a learning experience. Then I think of Karen's children, first dealing with the terrible problems between their parents, the divorce, and then the death of their mom, and I am thankful that Sean hasn't had that to deal with.

Better try to get some sleep!

Boo
August 26, 2007 - Msg 55276:
I want to share this little story with you folks. It really spoke to my heart so I put it in my e-newsletter this month.


A father wanted to read a magazine but was continuly interrupted by his little girl. She wanted to know what the United States looked like. Finally, he tore a sheet out of his new magazine on which was printed the map of the country. Tearing it into small pieces for each state, he gave it to his daughter and said, "See if you can put this together and it will show you our whole country."
After a few minutes she handed him the map correctly fitted together with tape. The father was completely surprised and asked how she had finished so quickly.
"Oh," she said, "on the other side of the paper is a picture of Jesus. When I got all of Jesus back where He belonged, then our country just came together."



Porch family, I just pray we (our country) put Jesus back where He belongs. Let's keep praying!
-REV.
August 27, 2007 - Msg 55277: Good Morning folks, hope everyone is doing okay today. Just getting ready to start my work day and thought I would stop by. Glad you are home safe and sound Romeena. Prayers all around the porch today. Lunch will be: Olive Garden my treat. see you all there. have a blessed day. Big Maude
August 27, 2007 - Msg 55278: Good morning everyone. It's a beautiful day here. Nice suprise. Thanks, God!

MAUDE: You don't have to tell me twice. Let me know who's coming and I'll save some booths.

REV: Kids make it all so simple, don't they?

ROMEENA: You hang in there. We're all pulling (and praying) for you.

LUCY: Thanks! Vanilla is just peachy with me. We're getting another raspberry crop so I'll bring soem to throw in if that's okay.

MDC: I'm not sure that anarchy is preferable to a Clinton ;). I'm not much of a Romney fan, and I don't think he really has a shot. Of course, I have been wrong before; there was that time back in 1985 when I said that the rap thing was just a passing fad...

BOO: Your welcome. Yes, kids will get their feelings hurt. And some will get picked on unmercilously. Some of them go on to be social outcasts who sometimes do terrible things. Others go on to learn to deal with their feelings, overcome obstacles, and achieve great things. The difference? Parents. Parents who will listen, push, hug, cry, sweat, pray, and go that extra mile. Parenst who understand that the nurturing of the soul of their child is the most important work they will ever do. That is their number one job (not fly killin'). You know that, and I'm sure that while it will not be some tiptoe through the tulips for Sean, he will get through it and be a stronger, more nurturing, and better adjusted man for it in the end.

Have a great day!

Me-They
"Did I ever tell you you have a warped sense of humor?"
August 27, 2007 - Msg 55279: Oh, BOO, I read this article on the pitfalls of girls fashions that we have discussed several times. The article is kinda funny and I thought that you might enjoy it: http://www.slate.com/id/2172705/nav/ais/

M-T
August 27, 2007 - Msg 55280: Good morning, all. I just finished going through all the mail that arrived while I was gone, and am so touched by all the lovely cards and notes from you folks. I won't name everyone - you know who you are. I just can't tell you how much those kindnesses mean to me. I have all the cards laying on the coffee table, directly above her little bed, which I haven't had the strength to move just yet. I will, in time, but probably not today. Every evening, when I'd settle down to watch TV, she would get in that little bed, which is about six feet from my chair, and would stay there an hour or so, then gradually start moving toward me. First she would move over to the floor beside my ottoman for a few minutes, then would hop onto the ottoman and snuggle against my feet. Soon she would be in my lap, and there she would stay. If I got up for any reason, there would be much huffing and sighing, maybe even a soft little "grr, grr, grr" at being disturbed. She'd move to the big wide arm of the chair, and wait there until I returned, then resume her place in my lap, heaving a big "well, finally!" sigh as she settled down. These are some of the precious memories, which hurt so much right now, but will be treasured in time to come. Thanks, everyone, for understanding and letting me grieve, or more accurately, for helping me grieve. --Romeena
August 27, 2007 - Msg 55281:
Boo-please be extra observant since he is on prescriptions. I have read where teasing, pinching (physical contact) etc can sometimes be the driving force to start making lists etc. As MT said, you and bruce's involvement as parents are very crucial at this timre.
My prayers continue to be with the whole situation. Remember,Opie was about 7 and going by a script. sean is 12 and he has to write his own script, so to speak. Maybe a good heart to heart father/son talk would be a good thing. As Rev said, and may Jesus be there in the center of it all. Sincerely,
MDC

August 27, 2007 - Msg 55282: BIG JERRY:

Thanks for the lead on Joanna Moore singing "Down in the Valley, Valley So Low." She had a wonderful voice.

-B (whispering)the Interloper in NC
August 27, 2007 - Msg 55283: Those are some very wise words Me-They. Thank you. Sean had a terrible time at school today and broke down in the classroom (not something a 12 yr old wants to do in front of other kids). Bruce and I have an appointment with the school administrator in the morning. MDC, thanks for your reminder. I think about those things from time to time. At this point Sean tells me about everything that is bothering him and I try to stay involved.

Prayers continue, Romeena. I'm sorry to say that I never thought of sending a card but I sure am glad my porch brothers and sisters thought to do such a thoughtful thing. You folks are really something, you know that? God bless each one of you for your good and kind hearts.

Hey B-, you're not really an interloper. You are welcome to join us anytime!

Boo
August 27, 2007 - Msg 55284:
Moulage check 10-4
August 27, 2007 - Msg 55285: Another milestone - I took her carseat out of the car today. --Romeena
August 27, 2007 - Msg 55286: Romeena - I am sorry that this is so hard for you. I have been there. And sometimes, I am still there. Bandy was my first son. It does get easier and you will think back and say, remember when Plum did this, and when Plum did that. . .you are lucky that you have some nice pictures of her. My favorite picture of Bandit was sleeping on the couch at the feet of my oldest when he was a baby. . .almost like he was keeping watch on him. He also would come and get us when the boys cried, like we didn't hear them. . .those are sweet memories now. I am glad that we can be there for you! We love you! We loved Plum too!

homemaker
August 27, 2007 - Msg 55287: Thanks, homemaker. I know that the time will come when the pain will lessen, but it sure is hard right now. I remember when you lost Bandit. I know it must have been terribly hard for you then, but you dealt with it well, at least here on the porch. I suppose I'm dumping it all on you folks so much, because there's no one else here but me.

I know the porchsters loved little Plum - lots of people did. My yard man had tears in his eyes as he was helping my son enlarge the little grave so the box would fit. When my son tried to give him some money, he refused, almost insulted, and said "Sugar was my friend, too!" The Sparkletts man was very upset when I told him - he used to get such a laugh out of her demanding a carrot when he came in the house. My neighbor and his wife want to take me out to dinner on Friday. My kids are in touch daily. The mailman asked about her, and was very upset when he learned what had happened. My household repairman friend and his wife sent a card. My Sunday School class has sent cards and called. You folks have posted such loving messages, and sent cards. I'm so blessed, and in time I'll be okay. Her death just signifies the end of an era for me, I guess, and it's hard. It will get better. I'll get little Starr, and will learn to love her, and we'll be fine. But there will never be another Sugarplum. --Romeena
August 27, 2007 - Msg 55288:
Hello porch family.

Ro...you're so right, there will never be another Plum. But there can be a Starr and then there will never be another Starr. Starr will never take Plum's place but will fill ANOTHER place in your heart. Still praying!

Boo....I hurt so bad for Sean and all of you. But I just believe he will pull through this and become a very strong young man in the process. Prayers!

Well I guess Spot is out on the lake enjoying his time off.

-B....come on back and set a spell with us on the porch.

M-T...you mentioned raspberries; Every year in Maine as I have posted before, we go out and pick a freezer full(in the motorhome)of wild blueberries. This year we were also able to pick a bunch of raspberries. They have been so good in our homemade muffins. My wife made a blueberry/raspberry pie the other night and man was it good.

Well better off here. You all have a blessed night and prayers for all the porch needs.
-REV.
August 27, 2007 - Msg 55289: Boo, it just breaks my heart to hear of Sean's troubles. He is such a sweet kid, I was so impressed by him when we met. I just know that God has some special plans for him, and maybe this is a time of testing to strengthen him for what God wants him to do. Prayers for him, as always. --Romeena
August 27, 2007 - Msg 55290:
Lucy-I read Newt's "Gettysburg" this past spring. I really enjoyed it. However, I don't think I'll read his others. I don't read a lot of fiction. I think it's great that your guarding your right of the franchise so adamantly. A while back I think you asked if anyone bought any new books lately, I forgot to mention that my kids gave me "The Reagan Diaries" for fathers day. I hate to sound too corny but it really makes me miss him.

MDC-I have to agree with ya. Having Hillary and Bill back in the White House would be bad. We need someone to lead the nation. I think Bubba was more worried about looking presidential than being presidential. I think Mitt would be a fine President.

Me-They There's a lot of things I don't agree with Rudy on but, one big issue I do agree on with him is that, he knows we're at war. He turned NYC from a hard left wonderland into a decent place once again with his workfare plans, curbing panhandlers, limiting public money for insulting works of art. Rudy wasn't mayor when WTC was bombed in '93 but right from the start he criticized the Clinton Administration for treating it like any other criminal case. The biggest terrorism blunder that I can think of regarding Rudy was his placement NYC Emergency Command Center at the WTC, that may be a case of hindsight being 20/20.

Boo-I feel for ya. I really do. But I think Rev & M-T are right, in the end Sean will be stronger because he has parents how are directing him and helping now. That love you are showing him will not disappear, he'll take it and pass it on. You can be sure of it.

Romeena-God bless.

-B Yes, please come back and sit a spell.

auh2o
August 27, 2007 - Msg 55291:
Boo-That was to read...because he has parents who are directing him and helping now.

auh2o
August 28, 2007 - Msg 55292: Hey porch friends! I've been scarce the last few days, because I've been sick(again) but I'm feeling better this morning, thank goodness. I'm even going in to work at the restaurant today. Boy, I hope this break from chemo gives my body a chance to bounce back. I'm so sick and tired of being sick and tired.
Enough about me....except for one thing. Miller got a letter in the mail today saying he had been chosen as a member of his school's morning braodcast team. They do a little closed circuit tv show for the school every morning. Miller auditioned for it in May. They start school on Sept. 4th, and goes in to start training Wednesday. Miller is so excited and proud, he's about to bust.
Now really, enough about me.
Ro, I have been thinking about you and praying for you every day during this difficult time. I hope each day gets a little easier.
Bo, I'd like to echo what MT and the others have said. As the mother of a very sensitive child, I know how diffult it can be to see your kid hurt. But Sean is so lucky to have you and Bruce and a supportive Christian family behind him. He's going to be a special young man(he already is!).
Welcome to the new porch sitters...stay and rock awhile!
A big HOWDY-DO to everybody...Big Jerry, Big Maude, homemaker, MDC, auh2o, Rev, Lucy, Asa, Tom, Dr. Pendyke, and any other porch sitters out there.
Well, I'm off to start my very productive day. Hope this works! Breakfast? Sure. Chocolate chip pancakes, bacon and oj. Help yourself. And have a GREAT DAY!
{{{hugs}}}
Millie



August 28, 2007 - Msg 55293:

Boo, I get so angry and sad reading about the taunting Sean is having to endure. Hopefully your meeting will yield some positive results. In time he'll come to realize that these kids just haven't yet learned to consider other people's feelings, and that later in life most of them will look back on their behavior and be sorry. I hope he realizes that they're motivated by their own insecurities and fears, and that what they're doing really has nothing to do with him at all. It's a lot to ask of a child that age, but hopefully he can learn focus on how many of the kids aren't being mean to him. Things change so fast at this age, and I wouldn't be surprised if one day soon some of these kids actually wind up being his friends, or at the very least, getting bored and moving on.

Please keep us posted, and I am keeping Sean in my prayers. The fact that he knows you understand his pain and are behind him no matter what will do wonders.

~DeS~
.
August 28, 2007 - Msg 55294: To Romeena, relating Sugarplums evening ritual brought tears to my eyes.
Remember the song "Turn Turn Turn" performed by the Byrds? It was based upon the book of Ecclesiastes chapter 3 in the Bible. It goes something like this:
To everything ... turn, turn, turn
There is a season ... turn, turn, turn
And a time for every purpose, under heaven
A time to be born, a time to die
A time to plant, a time to reap
A time to kill, a time to heal
A time to laugh, a time to weep.
And now Romeena, it's time for you to weep. You weep sadly because of the deep sense of loss. Yet you weep joyfully because Sugarplum is in a better place without any more suffering.

Boo, I am so sad to hear about the teasing Sean has been receiving at school. Check out http://www.stopbullyingnow.hrsa.gov/index.asp.

Millie, it's good to see you returning to the Front Porch and Bogarts! You sure ain't no quitter. Good for you. I have been to Sarah's a couple of times looking for you.

from Poor Horatio
August 28, 2007 - Msg 55295: Thanks Poor Horatio, I'll check out that site.

You folks are something. I feel like I'm ready to face the day after reading your posts. There is no place that I receive more encouragment, except from God, himself. You are all amazing. Thank you for the reminders that God is doing a work and it's all going to be ok, in time, and for your many prayers. You've all shared such wise counsel with me!

MILLIE! Great to see a nice, long post from you and rejoicing that you are feeling able to go to work today! I am also very proud of Miller (of course he was just the right man for the job. He's a little genius!). Please give him our congratulations.

Des, when I read your post, I was thinking about how many times an enemy became a friend to me when I was Sean's age. So true! Thanks for the reminder.

Romeena, how wonderful that you are receiving such an outpouring of support. God is answering prayer.

Homemaker, I was looking at the pics on Ro's photo site and saw a few that I had missed of Shotgun and your boys. Not only is the donkey adorable, but so are the boys!! That one of your son with the red hair, with his face next to Shotgun put a big smile on my face. You need to frame that one!

AGAIN, I woke up at 4am (and yes, MDC, I took Melatonin last night). Guess it's hormones or something. I read that women my age can have problems with waking up in the night and not sleeping. Guess I should start taking the red clover leaf extract again...

Yesterday was my mother-in-law's birthday so I drove to George West and took her and her husband out to eat. She wanted to eat at Chili's. We had a nice time. She turned 75 and she is still very active and young for her age. She and her husband, Don are a real hoot and I like to spend time with them. Good, Christian folks who know how to have fun. I hope I am in as good a shape at their age (or now, even! haha). Don is 82, but you would never know it.

Well, ya'll please send up a prayer for us. Our meeting with the school is at 10 this morning (central time). I have a feeling we may have to seek other options for Sean. I was looking at a site for The Homeschool Legal Defense Assoc., of which we were members while I was homeschooling, and they have counselors who would help me to find someone in my area who could help me if I chose to school Sean at home again. Anyway, I may have some decisions to make. Thanks!

Better make the kids lunches, yada, yada, yada...

I'll be back to tell you how the meeting went.

Boo
August 28, 2007 - Msg 55296: Boo - good luck with your meeting. I think that the school will help you find some answers. I just have this feeling about your new school. Is Erin still doing well?

My oldest son has been anxious about his class. I am not particularly fond of his homeroom teacher but I bite my lip and keep going. I do a lot of things in the background that my son doesn't realize I am doing. Maybe if you could volunteer once a month at the school or every other week - that would put Sean at ease and you too. I know that you have a lot on your plate!

I will talk at you all later!

homemaker
August 28, 2007 - Msg 55297: Good morning everyone.

BOO: "I read women my age have problems..." Well, you're no spring chicken anymore (heehee).

You have my prayers this morning. I hope that your meeting goes well. It isn't easy to see your kids hurt, and it's almost worse when that hurt is emotional. While the homeschooling should be an option if things get out of hand, I'm sure that you've thought of the fact that you can't put Sean in a "bubble." Honestly, like REV said, with Jesus in the middle of it, it will work out to Sean's good and His glory.

ROMEENA: One day at a time, right? Prayers.

MILLIE: I'm so glad to hear from you. Pat MILLER on the back for me. Boy, with all you porch parents do teh right things, I'm starting to get an inferiority complex.

AUH2O: Points taken. Being from New Yawk, you must know him and his record better than I. Still, I am not of the "end justifies the means" kinda guy, and have a real hard time sacrificing my moral values requirements for defense. I'm definitely not of the stripe that we should elect the "best warrior" no matter his values. (I'm not saying you are, just clarifying my opinion.) I know I predicted a Mitt-Edwards general election but I'm throwing my hands up in the air.

I'm not a big fan of historical fiction, either. I think it's fine, but "real" history is so much more interesting. And, to use a well-worn phrase, often stranger than fiction.

See y'all at lunch.

Me-They