November 12, 2007 - Msg 58057: ...or the OREGANO! (right, MDC)...

Cute names, DES..I like Dockers.

Boo
November 12, 2007 - Msg 58058: I vote for Dockers. Hard to mistake that for anything else, and it's cute. --Romeena
November 12, 2007 - Msg 58059: hey gang ,hope everyones well .Been busy the last teo weeks ,my dad has been sick for two years ,lung cancer and radiation treatments ,but has been getting sicker ,he had to be hospitalized twice in the past two weeks ,once for pneumonia and once to receive several units of blood for anemia .Hospice has started helping now ,they are wonderful people and a God send for mom .My brother helped me build a wheel chair ramp Saturday so dad could get outside some .Things have been stressful to say the least ,but God wont give us more than we can handle .Gonna hit the archives and catch up ,prayers for all the great people here on the porch
MAYBERRY DEPUTY
November 12, 2007 - Msg 58060: Evenin' Porch Family:
Just rockin' for a minute to catch my breath. Our prayers are with you and the family Mayberry Deputy. I know those days of trial and testings came wear a person out. Enjoy the times you have together, as you know that the time will be short. Ask questions,(about childhood, dating, etc.) record stories, take pictures, MAKE MEMORIES. Too many times we don't do enough of that!!
Hey Ro: how's motherhood going?
Prayers for Asa & wife. We think of you often.
Got to go and get the children fed.
Congratulations to hm's children.
Checkin' in later...~New Neighbor
November 12, 2007 - Msg 58061:

Hope you get to feeling better, MW.

Mayberry Deputy, prayers going up for your dad and your family.

Hey back atcha, AUH2O!

Boo, I also thought of Britches for your bunny. Kinda cute.

~De§~
November 12, 2007 - Msg 58062: Hey gang...gosh been busy at work...any leftovers?..SPOT
November 12, 2007 - Msg 58063: Mayberry Deputy - I am so sorry for your trials - may God grant you some peace through all of this.

Spot - got some sausage burgers left over. . .help yourself!

Boo - I like Britches too but Knickers is still my pick!

hm

P.S. MDC - we have four truck loads of wood finished - we fill my husband's F250 8 foot bed heaping and then bring it home and unload. Only four more to go!


November 12, 2007 - Msg 58064: Thanks HM but what is this here sausage burger?...SPOT
November 12, 2007 - Msg 58065:
MAYBERRY DEPUTY-Prayers for you and your family. Like New Neighbor said, make some memories. Your right, God never gives us more than we can handle. You and your brother are there for your folks, that's great, you two can be there for each other also.

auh2o
November 12, 2007 - Msg 58066:
Hello porch family....Pray you all are doing good.

Boo...so glad to hear the fundraiser turned out great.

Possum...prayers for Kim.

Thank you all for your prayers for me. I am feeling a lot better. Still a little stuffy but a whole lot better than it was. Thank You Jesus for these wonderful folks. MY porch family!

M-D...prayers for your dad and all your family during this trying time.

Spot...brother, don't be working too hard...how was that sausage burger from HM?

Gotta get to bed....Prayers for all the porch family. Remember....Jesus loves you!
-REV.
November 12, 2007 - Msg 58067: Auh2o, I once heard someone say that God sometimes gives us more than we can handle, but never more that HE can handle...kind of true, if you think about. There have been lots of things I couldn't handle that God handles for me.

I like Britches but Knickers is probably my favorite so far and it's the kid's favorite.

Better hit the sheets...tomorrow is another day.

Boo
November 12, 2007 - Msg 58068: Oh hey, REV, glad you are feeling better!

Boo
November 12, 2007 - Msg 58069: Hey Boo,brother Rev the burger was good...where are ya at my friend?..Tenn?...things slowed down here at work...gona find a movie...back in a bit...SPOT
November 13, 2007 - Msg 58070: Hey SPOT, what movie did you end up watching? I haven't seen a good movie in ages. I want to see the movie, "Bella" that is supposed to be out but it's not in any theaters in my area. I think someone mentioned it here on the porch not long ago, I think it was Merri? I saw the trailor for it and looks very good. I can't decide if I have the guts to see the Vince Vaughn movie about Santa's brother....I hate to waste more money at the theater! If any of you see it and like it, I might.

Better get Erin off to school and then tackle the.......LAUNDRY!!!...go get your shorts, Me-They.

Boo
November 13, 2007 - Msg 58071: Good morning everyone.

MAYBERRY DEPUTY: It was good to hear from you, though I'm sorry about what you are going through. You have my prayers.

BOO: I mentioned "Bella" a few weeks ago and from what I've heard since I want to see it even more. Regarding the Vince Vaughn movie, I have heard it is pretty raunchy, but all things are relative. You may want to look it up on Pluggedin at Focus on the Family. They usually do a good job providing information and letting you draw your own conclusions.

Here come my shorts--INCOMING!

Me-They
November 13, 2007 - Msg 58072: Good morning friends, neighbors, women of the Lady's Historical Society. I stand before you a humble man, full of humbleness and humility....
Hope all is well for everyone this morning.
Thank you all for your prayers and expressions of concern for my wife and I. It looks like she will be forced to retire but she seems to be doing better with the thought of that. I think we both have been going through a period of coming to terms with this disease. Her liver counts are still messed up so she can't be on anything for the M.S. but she has decided that's ok. She is thinking the cure is worse than the disease anymore and I am inclined to agree. They do have her on steroids for her liver right now, but the last tests revealed no change so that is a concern.

On a happier note. Romeena, guess who's coming to town here? Mannhiem Steamroller and I went and bought two tickets in the first row. We both love their music and went to their concert a few years back when they were in town. They are a must see. One of the best nights I have ever had. We are both much excited for it. The day after Thanksgiving is when they will be here.

New Neighbor, you are so sweet. Thanks for all you do. Are your girls doing better? I sure hope so.

Mayberry Deputy, I'm sorry about your difficult situation, but having Hospice being involved is a good move. They are a wonderful help during a very challanging time. Prayers for your family my friend.

Rev, glad that bug spray worked on yer uvula. Don't need you getting no head cold.

Boo, why did you call Homemaker and old block? That sounds more like one of her meatballs. LOL

Romeena, so glad you got your furkid. I just cant get my mind on Dynamite, but Dinah sounds cute. Anyway, I know whatever you pick for her will be right. Names are important cause our furkids seem to grow up to be what we name them, you ever notice that? Our Barney is a Barney through and through, although we could name him Ernest T. cause he is a pestilence and you know what they say about a pestilence, it will find you. HA!

Prayers to all, I know I have not been here much but work has finally settled down so I hope to be here more, if I am still welcome that is.

Asa
November 13, 2007 - Msg 58073: Hey spot - a sausage burger is a sausage pattie on steroids! Just a big, porky patty that you dress like a hamburger. Really delicious! Up here - the pork producers have porkchops and pork burgers. Good stuff!

hm
November 13, 2007 - Msg 58074: Hey ASA, good to hear from you! That Manheim concert sound great...wish I could go. I don't think they ever come to Corpus Christi.

Speaking of pet names, we also thought of "Tights" for the rabbit. I think it will be Knickers, though. I am already finding myself calling him "Knickerson"...don't know why.

Well, just stopped in for minute..

Boo
November 13, 2007 - Msg 58075:
Hello porch family.... only got a couple minutes before I have to leave out. Just wanted to drop by and check in real quick.
I probably won't get back to the porch till next week because I don't think I'll have internet service where I'll be.

Spot.....yep...I'm in Tn now but leaving for Ky in a few minutes. I'll be there till Monday. I'll watch for the truck brother.

hm...I like your decription of a sausage burger....ha

Boo...get that laundry done today....fun fun!

Hate to rush off but gotta get on the road. I'll be back as soon as I can. Until then.....praying for all the porch family.
Tell someone about Jesus today!
-REV.
November 13, 2007 - Msg 58076: I've been reading some of the furkid name suggestions given here, and while they are all good, I actually like MW's suggestion - CocoNut. I just couldn't get my mind around Dinah, I think of Dinah Shore, who I must admit I don't know much about, but there is something that doesn't sound right about it; or I also think of J.J. Walker saying "dyno-mite!!" and that doesn't fit either.
But Coconut is cute, for what I imagine is a cute puppy. And part of the name fits in with TAGS, being that Ernest T. Bass was a NUT, in Barney's eyes. ;)
Ultimately the choice is yours, Romeena. You have to go with the name you will feel comfortable saying to her, mentioning here on the porch, and yelling at her out the door(if she ever goes outside). Like Asa said, you will pick the right one. And it will come to you, so don't fret about it.

Me-They, that was really well-said, on that thing I am not going to talk about anymore. For now.;)


Hey, is anyone here as unaffected by the Hollywood writers strike as I am? I wouldn't even know there was a strike if I didn't hear about it on the news. I tend to stay away from the current shows.
Most of the stuff they are writing today isn't worth the computer chips they write it on anyway. Maybe they will never come off strike and they can start re-running good shows on every channel. Or a channel for each show; one for Andy; one for Little House; one for Mama's Fmaily; etc(insert your favorite shows here). Now that's a cable lineup I would love to have!

Sorry about your troubles, Mayberry Deputy. Prayers for your father.

-Sterling Holobyte
November 13, 2007 - Msg 58077: That's "Mama's FAMILY", not fmaily(that doesn't sound good.;)).
Sorry Mama. I can hear her now, "Well, Good Lord!"


Have a good time, Rev. Be safe! A friend of mine told me that the people in Kentucky were the nicest people he'd ever met, so you will be in good company.


-Sterling Holobyte


November 13, 2007 - Msg 58078: Hey there, STERLING, ASA, HM. Safe travels, REV. Ain't you et that rabbit yet, BOO? ;)

I have a question for all of you who have or had 7 year-old girls: what age-appropriate books do you recommend? Or series, if possible. We are trying to figure out Christmas gifts.

Thanks.

Me-They
November 13, 2007 - Msg 58079: Me-They, my 7 year old girl likes the Junie B. Jones series. Junie B can be quite a bit of a rapscallion, but it is also pretty innocent stuff.
She also has one of the books by Laura Ingalls Wilder, "On The Banks Of Plum Creek" which she hasn't started reading yet(she's still on one of her Junie B. Jones books), but she is interested in horses and buggies and such, probably because of all the Amish around here, so I thought that would be a good thing for her to read.

She also likes to read books of some of the tv shows she watches, like Hannah Montana and ones of the Olsen Twins(when they were younger, not the older years). I'm not too keen on those, but I guess it is better reading about them than watching the shows, and they are relatively kid-friendly in how they are written.

-Sterling Holobyte
November 13, 2007 - Msg 58080: Thanks, STERLING. Nora is into the Junie B. Jones books, too. In fact, that's just about all she reads. They are fine, in my opinion, but we were hoping to get her to branch out a little bit.

M-T
November 13, 2007 - Msg 58081: Good morning, all. REV, you drive safely now, and get back to us as soon as you can. Praying that your concerts go well. I know you will lift Jesus up at every opportunity.

Books for 7-yr old girls? Hmmm. I don't think I can remember back that far. It's been around 40 years since my girls were that age. One was a reader, one was not. For myself, I read the "Caddie Woodlawn" series. Caddie (short for Caroline, I think) was a young girl growing up in the country, in a Christian family. I don't even know if the books are still available, but they were delightful. Google them, I guess. Of course, Louise May Alcott's books are classics. "Little Women", followed by "Little Men" and "Jo's Boys" - wonderful books. They may be a little advanced, more like for a ten-year-old or older, but they're great. I read them as a kid, then again as a teenager, then again as an adult. There's something there for every age. My mom taught me to read when I was four, and I developed a love affair with books that has never waned. A person who enjoys reading should never be lonely or bored.

Oh, what fun! Mama Squirrel just led her newest litter of babies out of the nest box. They are so cute, scampering around on the tree outside my window. I guess I need to go put some feed out, if I can find something. I really need to go to the critter-feed store. I've got some dry cereal, though - they'll eat that, until I can get some of the good stuff. Maybe I'll go this afternoon.

Mayberry Deputy, I'm sorry you're having to deal with such a difficult situation. I've been through it, I know how hard it is. I'm glad you got Hospice involved - they can be a tremendous asset, if it's a good one. Some are better than others. Vitas here in north Texas is great!

Asa, prayers for you and Mrs. Asa. You're walking such a difficult road right now, sure do wish I could make it easier for you.
Wow! Front row seats at a Mannheim Steamroller concert? I'm green with envy. My car has a 6-disc CD player, and a single-disc player, and of course, the radio. There's a button that toggles between the units. Usually I play the single-disc unit, just playing whatever is my current favorite. Yesterday I switched over to the 6-disc unit, not even knowing what was in it. It was the group I had put in last Christmas and never changed! The very first selection was a Steamroller number - so pretty. Their version of "Auld Lang Syne" is the prettiest I've ever heard, in my opinion. Very different.

Well, gotta go play with Starr. I can't seem to get away from that - Starr. Thanks for all the suggestions, and I'm still considering, but that's the name that pops out when I call her, so that will probably be it.

Blessings, all. --Romeena
November 13, 2007 - Msg 58082: More Junie B fans, eh? They are Erin's favorite, too.. probably because she and Junie B are so much alike! Have you ever read any of the "Henry and Mudge" books? Erin likes those, too but she is only 6. They are short books, though, but really cute stories about a little boy and his BIG dog, Mudge. And then there are my personal favorites, "Hank the Cowdog", and then aren't just for boys. I think Nora might like them, they are very funny. I think you said you already had the Little House series of books for Nora, didn't you? I used to like The Happy Hollister books when I was a child. Some like the Boxcar Children but I haven't read any of those.

Boo
November 13, 2007 - Msg 58083: Me-They, I did a search for the Caddie Woodlawn books that Romeena mentioned, and they look really good. I found some on Amazon. I think you should look into them for Nora.

Boo
November 13, 2007 - Msg 58084:
Hey Folks

Me-They My oldest daughter (The Reader) loved the "Caddie Woodlawn" books and the "Little House" series. But, seven ain't that pretty young for those? I do remember the "Puppy Patrol" and "Magic Tree House" books. Seven? hmm Boy, that seems young though. Isn't that like first grade? I think during the first grade year my girls were reading "Arthur" and "Clifford" books.

Asa-GREAT to see ya!

Rev-God Bless ya on your trip.

Viva la Revolution!! Power to the People!! "Tin soldiers and Nixon coming we're finally on our own..." (sorry)
Long live the writers strike!!

auh2o
November 13, 2007 - Msg 58085: M-T. . .I like Magic Treehouse but you may get some questions about Merlin the Magician, etc.
I like Junie B - she is such a hoot! I also like Amelia Bedelia - she is kind of like me - a little scatter brained.


hm
November 13, 2007 - Msg 58086: Good to see the porch busy! Prayers for all the needs among us.

Books for a 7 year old - well, my 7 yo likes the "Animal Ark Pets" series by Ben Baglio, and the "Capital Mysteries" by Ron Roy. Evie and I have read the Little House books together since she was around 4 - and she owns most of them. She's also read the first two books in the "Rachel Yoder" series by Wanda Brunstetter (the next two come out in the spring), and these are Amish based. Has Nora read any of the "Cul-de-sac Kids" books by Beverly Lewis? I think Evie liked those fairly well.

Ya'll have a good day!
AFD
November 13, 2007 - Msg 58087: I've read some Amelia Bedelia books to Erin and she laughed her little blonde head off. Might try one of those, very cute.

Still neck-deep in laudry and just taking a break...

Boo
November 13, 2007 - Msg 58088: Hey my buddy Asa,auh20,Boo I watched an old western on AMC last night...I like those..hey hazel.HM,Romeena ya working tonight?..M-T,Starr,possum,opiemom,maude where are ya girl?...CHUCK?,sterling,md,mdc,afd,dr.p and all..horatio where are you?..well supper will be meat loaf mash taters,greenbeans,corn on the cob,sliced onions,big maude slaw,apple pie,tea, hot peppers...ready at 6:30..Brothere Rev prayers on your trip!..look for the UPS truck and dale driving!....at work now and got to get some things caught up...back in a bit..SPOT
November 13, 2007 - Msg 58089: Good Afternoon Porch Family! Sure has been busy on my end of the porch, but finally got enough of a break to read the archives & post. My you folks have been chatty, took me forever to read the archives! Some things I won't comment on, (even tho I really want to! teehee) besides, Me-They makes a better moulage than I do, mine comes out too thick, maybe I don't use enough egg whites.
Ro I vote for Coconut as well, we could call her the Nut. ;) And, I thought of you yesterday, I was at a client's house taking a break between dogs & watching the wildlife in her backyard when the most beautiful squirrel I ever saw showed up...solid black!! And of course I didn't have my camera. She said there was a whole family of them, it was the prettiest site I've seen a while.
Boo you wouldn't have so much laundry if Me-They wouldn't change clothes so many times in a day.
Asa so good to hear from you! Prayers continue for you & the Mrs.
MW lady, take a break! That is scary about you passing out! I hate to admit it, but I have to laugh a little when you tell the stories of your little gerkhins, especially #2. She sounds like a little pistol! So glad mine is not that little anymore. Course with age comes bigger things, like last night he called & asked for a $300 loan so he could put a down payment on a car, AND if his dad wouldn't co-sign a loan for him, would I? Sometimes I think I would rather have the make-up smearing kid back. ;)
I did manage to find some Honeycrisp apples & man, ya'll was right! MMMMMM good.
Best get some things accomplished around here, we are heading for Concord, NC this weekend for the last dog show of the year, wish us luck, we have 2 of the dogs entered. Darla, the colored Bull Terrier (altho today she has been more like a Bull TerrOr) & Racy the Chinese Crested.
Later taters,
*Mavis
November 13, 2007 - Msg 58090: Oh, and I vote for Knickers for the bunny, if someone mistakes you for Dog the Bounty Hunter Boo they need glasses! I did have an old maid aunt that named all of her black animals that n-word tho, of course that was YEARS ago, I remember as a little girl being so embarrassed when she would holler out the back door for the dogs to come to supper, calling them by name. Thank goodness she lived on a farm away from everyone else.
Mavis
November 13, 2007 - Msg 58091: Didn't see you there Spot sounds like a good supper, I'll be there early for 2 helpings of meat loaf!
*Mavis
November 13, 2007 - Msg 58092: I remember reading some Amelia Bedelia books to Kai when she was younger, and they got quite annoying to me, as the reader. I guess it was the use of her full name anytime she was mentioned or was talking. Like, "Amelia Bedelia did this" or "Amelia Bedelia did that" or "Said Amelia Bedelia". Every time!
I know, I shouldn't get so irritated about a children's book, but that really got on my nerves. :D
Other than that annoyance, I suppose they are good books.

I'm going to have to check out those "Rachel Yoder" books, thanks AFD, for mentioning those! Sounds interesting.


-Sterling Holobyte


November 13, 2007 - Msg 58093: Good grief, make that gherkin in the above post, how about I just say little pickle instead? I can spell that.
*Mavis
November 13, 2007 - Msg 58094: Hey Mavis, didn't see you there! How is marriage setting with you? Great, I'm sure.

Yeah, aren't those Honeycrisp apples good?! As the young ones say nowadays, "sweet!"

Probably later we'll find out that they inject them with sugar or something. ;)

-Sterling Holobyte
November 13, 2007 - Msg 58095: Sterling I LOVE it! Never thought I would say that, but I do love being married. Mr. Neff is just awesome!
If you find out those Honeycrisp apples are bad for ya, please don't tell me, they's gooood! teehee
*Mavis
November 13, 2007 - Msg 58096:
I love those old westerns too Spot, that's why, per Colt's suggestion a few years ago, I also started posting at that rifleman-western site.
www.riflemanconnors.com
One of my favorite movies with the Duke is True Grit.
Jimmie Johnson does it again at PIR
Prayers for MD and his dad and family, and prayers continue for Asa and his wife.
Anyone else have any Thanksgiving memories to share?
Man, this hannah Montana thing is something else. Ticket scaplers at a recent Phx event were getting $700.
Have a safe trip REV as you spread the Good news!
I like where Acts talks about "the Way!"
OK, I'll leave a half jug of squeezins to take the nip out of yer bones, but that's it! ha
APBing for Mary Wiggins, Mrs Wiley, Fun Girl, Dixie, Irishster, Adelle, Slim, Smoky Mt hillbilly, Ky girl, Mavis, and others.
MDC
"What? Only one of us gets in the Esquire Club? Well, if you aint good enough for 'em Andy, then neither am I."


November 13, 2007 - Msg 58097:
Oops, here i am lookin' for mavis, and she's right scheer!
mdc
November 13, 2007 - Msg 58098: test
November 13, 2007 - Msg 58099: Hello everyone,been real busy here on this end of the porch. Helped the oldest move in to his new house.We have also been doing some sprusing up around here,we're getting some new flooring for the kitchen and painting the bath. Read the archives, way to much to comment on, so for anyone not feeling well, take it easy and get better soon. Ro,glad you have a little pal, again. Me-They, Nora might like the James Herriot storybooks,if she enjoys animal stories.
Boo, we used to have a white rabbit,I vote for knickers.
Well,I just made some pecan shortbread cookies so grab a few and I'll get out the cold milk,enjoy. Take care. PEACE Dr P
November 13, 2007 - Msg 58100: Spot,thanks for the apb, we like the old westerns,too. Ordered the Ultimate TV Westerns Dvd set for my father-in-law for Christmas. DR P
November 13, 2007 - Msg 58101: Good afternoon, all. Still considering my baby's name - Coconut is cute, but it doesn't seem to fit her. I called her Star Blossom a few minutes ago, just spontaneously, as she was yanking my camera strap and pulling it off the table. It just popped out, and I rather like it, so that may be it. She has begun to answer to Starr, so I think I'm stuck with that part, and that's okay. That was my very first thought, before I even got her, so maybe it's right.

Oh yes, those honeycrisp apples are just yummy. You might even say delish! I ate one a few days ago with a little bit of Gruyere cheese, and wow, was that ever good!

Mavis, I have seen black squirrels. They're abundant around Battle Creek, in Michigan. My parents lived there for two years, in a house on two acres, very wooded. There were black squirrels everywhere, and you're right, they're gorgeous. Slightly bigger than our little squirrels around here, jet black and shiny, with thick fluffy tails. The local story was that one of the cereal families, the Post family I think, though it could have been the Kelloggs, brought a few pair of the black squirrels back from somewhere in Europe, where they're native. They released them on their estate outside Battle Creek, and I guess nature just took her course. Now they're everywhere in that area. However, if you Google "Black Squirrels" you'll find a lot of explanations for their presence, but not the one my parents were told. I wouldn't mind having a few down here, wherever they came from. They really are beautiful.

Well, guess I'd better go. Lots to do. Blessings, y'all. --Romeena
November 13, 2007 - Msg 58102: Hey Porch Family. I've been trying to pop in all day to say hey. Unfortunately, not only am I not up to snuff, but I took my girls in to the pediatrician today because of a cough they came down with yesterday, and guess what? Yep, walking pneumonia all around! I about fainted dead away again just for the scariness, surprise and burst of stress that hit my heart and then exploded in my feeble brain! We're all on zithro something or other, antibiotic. My oldest has a nasty ear infection so she's on drops as well. Since school has started, it has been non-stop illness. It's enough to make me want to homeschool. On top of that, when I call the school to let them know that my #1 won't be in for at least 2 or 3 days, then I get the talk about making sure I send in a doctor's note otherwise it won't be considered excused absences. Hold the phone. My kid had perfect attendance until just recently and as of today, she's only missed 2 days total. I guess I have a bit of that rebellion thing in me where I get my back up about authoritarianism gone overboard. They don't own my kids. And I'm a responsible parent. So, save the lecture and I'll get a note in when I'm good and ready--sometime after I'm done worrying myself to death over my sick little pickles, nursing them back to health and keeping myself going too!

MAVIS, is it you my sweet that lives in Bristol, Tennessee? I know I read somewhere one of our lovely porch pals is from there. Last night as I was convalescing on the couch (am I painting a pathetic picture? *cough*cough*) watching Thanksgiving specials on the Food Network channel, there is a candy shop that makes these beautiful candy cane baskets for Christmas! I think it was called Retliff's. Not sure though. Anyway, have you had one of those or seen one? I'd love to order me one for the holidays!

BOO, I vote for Mr. Knickers. Too sweet.

RO, STARR BLOSSOM is adorable. Sorry about the "Coconut" suggestion. I didn't mean to imply that STARR isn't fabulous, I just love little white animals and coconut. In different ways of course. Animals = Sweet to look at; Coconut = Sweet to eat. HA!!

Just a ways down the road from where I live is a town that has white, albino squirrels. They are cute and creepy at the same time. Kind of like white rats with big bushy tails. My kids loved watching them until they caught a glimpse of their red eyes and then I had to roll up the windows, lock the doors and keep the car moving.

I have seen "Fred Claus." I had free tickets and a friend wanted to see it, so I treated her to the movie. I went for the popcorn. Anyway, it's quite tame, so tame, that some might find it a bit boring compared to Vince Vaughn's other "projects." It reminded me of "Elf." And honestly, the worst word in it I can remember was when Santa said something about something going down the "crapper." (Sorry) There was no raunchiness. No curse words. And the central theme was actually positive: every child deserves love whether they are good or bad. My only criticism in it is that one of the North Pole employees, who is not an elf, wore a low-cut sweater throughout the movie. She was showing a bit too much of cleavage for my taste in Christmas movies. I thought there would be some inappropriate comments by Vince, but no. A little guy named Willy the elf had a crush on her and Vince was trying to teach him how to dance so that Willy could ask this gal out. Kevin Spacey was very good in it playing a bad guy trying to shut down Santa and Christmas. Kathy Bates played the mom who was kind of a jerk by favoring "the Saint" over the other kid. Anyway, it was mildly amusing. The music in it was great. I might have to get the soundtrack. The aisle's closed now. Come back next week when I review "Lions for Lambs." Oh wait, I can tell you now...Boring. ;-)

The girls are napping and I better go get a meat loaf in the oven. I saw a recipe that had milk soaked bread in it. I guess I'll give it a whirl. Let you know how it went. Take care all. And if you have time, I sure would appreciate prayers for my little girls. I worry about them so. I HATE to see them sick. And with pneumonia, even just the walking kind, it's scary. So please say a quick prayer for them. Thank you! --MW
November 13, 2007 - Msg 58103: So sorry to hear about you and your young'uns feeling puny, Merri. Prayers for a speedy recovery for all of you.

Another good site I use to check out movies is www.kids-in-mind.com

You're welcome, Sterling. I found the books at my local Christian bookstore. Hope you and Kai enjoy them.

Well, hubby is home so it's time to get ready for supper.
Hugs and prayers ya'll.
AFD
November 13, 2007 - Msg 58104: Hey my friend Mavis!...its supper time gang..Rev look for your plate shipment!..wow can you believe our south weather mid 70"a here..our governer had a prayer meeting at the city hall steps this morning for us to get blessed with rain and can you believe all that is on the news is the protesters!..crazy..sometimes ya wish us believers would get rain and others not but thats not Christian...well we might get a little [rain] they say tomorrow...well lets eat!..TOM you hold the door for the ladys...SPOT
November 13, 2007 - Msg 58105: Spot I will send all this rain that we are having right to you.
That all it ben doing all week is rain and being cold.

TOM

November 13, 2007 - Msg 58106: Evenin' Porch Family:
MW prayers for your young'uns, and you (having to entertain them) and still not feelin' your greatest. These will be "mommy moments".
Asa- SOOOO glad to see you post. I was beginning to worry about ya. Afraid ya couldn't find your way back to us! I thought that tag around your neck would identify ya if ya wandered off. But I see ya made it back! TEEHEE
Rev: safe traveling mercies for you. The Lord protect you on the busy highway.
Ro: Starr Blossom sounds perfect. What a blessing she had been already.
Goin' to get supper started. (Thanks Spot)
~New Neighbor
November 13, 2007 - Msg 58107: Hey Merri yes it's me that lives in Bristol, TN & yes, I've seen those baskets you are talking about. The Ruritan & clubs like that sell them around town & you can get them at the mall during the holidays. Always wanted to taste them, but didn't want to mess them up to do that. ;) Anyway go to www.ratliffcandy.com & you can order from there as well as learn all about them. They are really neat.
Off to bed here
Hey to Spot, Tom, Ro, New Neighbor, MDC, AFD & Dr P & everyone else rockin on the porch.
*Mavis
November 13, 2007 - Msg 58108: Oh, I meant to give you guys an update on our baby bird, JoJo. He is 16 weeks old now & started talking last month. Right now he can say JoJo, What you was doin? Good night & last week he started saying Gimme Sugar followed by Good Sugar. He copies me when I say Gimme Sugar, presses his little beak to my lips & copies me when I say Good Sugar. Now tell me that isn't cute! Melts me everytime! Oh, he is also barking, goes between the Chihuahua's bark & the Toy Poodle's bark, now half the time I don't know if it's the dogs or the bird barking! AND, he mocks my sneezing & is trying to say Bless you afterwards. Too cute this little green chicken is!
*Mavis
November 13, 2007 - Msg 58109: M-T, What is the reading level of the 7 yo girl? The Little House start at about a 2nd-3rd grade level. As the series progresses they get more difficult. They are good books. My girl and guys like the Cam Jansen mystery books, Encyclopedia Brown books, Books by Beverly Cleary (Henry Huggins and the like), BOoks by Eleanor Estes (Ginger Pye etc.). On an easier level there are the Nate the Great and the Henry and Mudge series.

Opiemom
November 13, 2007 - Msg 58110: OH, my current 3rd grader is really into Geronimo Stilton books right now. I don't generally go for series books that don't have any depth to them, but I'm trying to get this child into the habit of reading. ANyway, they are really fun. They are for boys and girls. (Actually, I think a really good book could be read by either).

Opiemom ( who is probably too opinionated about books)
November 13, 2007 - Msg 58111: Hey to you, too, Mavis. Glad to hear married life is treating you well. JoJo sounds like quite a character.

Opiemom - any suggestions about books are welcomed by me. My 7 year old has been reading since she turned 3 and it is sometimes hard to find books that are challenging enough for her but not too old for her maturity level, if you know what I mean.

AFD
November 13, 2007 - Msg 58112: TOM I hope we do get that rain that you send me..thanks..hey opiemom,New Neighbor yer welcome for supper..Mavis you must have a bird in this world!..Rev brother hope ya hade a safe Kentucky landing..and got yer plate..look for supper on the truck!..where is hazel,ct,maude,horatio,gizzmo,CHUCK and all the lost ones?..well watching the AMC channel tonight...good old movies...well breakfast will be as follows: eggs your way [3] ,thick sliced bacon [4 slices],bisquits and milk gravy,hashbrowns [plan],oj,coffee and a tear from my roll of paper towels...Boo dont be late..Asa you and M-T hold the chairs for the ladys...7:00 sharp...sterling you hold the door....prayers back with a snack in a bit!...SPOT
November 14, 2007 - Msg 58113: Howdy, all. Merri, you are something else. I just love reading your posts. Sure do wish we could all meet up. Oh, hey, that reminds me! My friend Eloise and I are talking about trying to make Mayberry Days next year! Her husband doesn't like to travel, but doesn't mind if she does, and I'm single, so it works out well. She was my Mongolia buddy both years, so we're used to traveling together. Anyway, we're thinking of driving out there, making a few fun side trips, and spend a couple of days in Mt. Airy. I think it would be great if some others could be there too. Anybody think you might make it? We could all meet up and have lunch and hang out together. Has anybody here been there? I'm thinking somebody has, but right now I can't remember who.

Mavis, your JoJo sounds terrific. I can't believe he's talking so much at such a young age. Do you work with him a lot, or is he just picking it up?

Merri, actually I liked Coconut as a name, I think it's really cute, but if you met her, you probably would agree that it doesn't fit her. Also, most of my kids hate real coconut, and would probably make tacky comments. I love it, myself. Coconut cake, cream pie, German chocolate cake with LOTS of coconut in the frosting - yep, it's good stuff.

Well, guess I'll turn in. I gave the kitchen a good scrub-down this evening, cleared the counters and cleaned them thoroughly, then wiped them down with Mr. Clean with lemon, and let it dry in place. I'm hoping that will discourage those miserable little ants that come creeping out after any little crumb, and manage to find their way into everything!! I've slowed them down considerably by sprinkling aspartame sweeteners along the back of the counters, but now they're coming up from the front, and I don't want that grit all over everything, for pete's sake!

Good night, all. Starr Blossom says 10-4. --Romeena
November 14, 2007 - Msg 58114: Romeena Im in there for sure to meet at Mayberry days next year!...Get up porch!..breakfast in 2 hrs..SPOT
November 14, 2007 - Msg 58115: I'm up...(yawn)..woke up at 5am.

Prayers for you and your children, Merri. Try not to worry, God is taking care of you and them.

I can hear Knickers in the kitchen munching on some lettuce (guess it's Knickers, for sure). I let him out in the backyard yesterday and he was so cute darting about from place to place, wearing his knickers!

By the way, thanks for the movie revue on Fred Claus.

Don't see myself making it to Mayberry Days next year. I would love to but, too many other financial responsibilities (and otherwise) right now.

Mavis, that bird sounds like a hoot! Good luck at the dog show...might want to take JoJo, since he can impersonate a poodle and a Chihuahua...you could call him a "Green Crested"...

Boo
November 14, 2007 - Msg 58116: Morning Dears.
HA, Spot, you telling Mavis she must have a bird in this world! Cracked me up. Thanks for the laugh.

Mavis, I am so happy you are so happy. You sure deserve it. I'm glad things are going well for you.

Merrie, sorry your young-uns are ailing. I swear I think schools are germ breeding factories. And your school saying your child will be required to bring a Doctors excuse!? Excuse me but who is their parent? If you don't bring a Doctors note what will they do? Expell them? This stuff just ticks me off. If a child has an excuse from a parent for being absent should darn well be good enough! These schools need to start remembering who THEY work for! (sorry to rant but this ticks me off)

So Romeena, it looks like Starr will be the choice. I like it. I already had her named that in my head so good deal.

N.N. you never did tell me how the young-uns were doing? Is Meridith doing better? Hows Courtney doing? Tell them hi for me.

Well best get off to work. Got meetings all day today. BORING!

Asa


November 14, 2007 - Msg 58117: Whoops, you weren't there when I started posting Boo. Hey to you.

Asa
November 14, 2007 - Msg 58118: OK OK I'm up!! Asa- stop hollaring around. I'll take that breakfast, but I'll have to share with someone, that's way too much food this hour of the morning.
I HAVE BEEN TO MT. AIRY ABOUT 7-8 TIMES!!! What'cha wanna know. Let me know the dates to meet up- I'll be there with my neighbettes.(have to ask off work) They just love that place. When we were there 2 summers ago, my son (16) was in Floyd's getting his hair cut and tourists thought he was Opie! Yes, Jeremiah has red hair, he's tall and thin and does resemble him, but come on, Ron Howard is in his 50's. I would return in a heart beat. And Mayberry Days is great. Lots of activities, parades, and ya gotta get a Porkchop sandwich at the Snappy diner next door to the barbershop. Yum Yum.
Meredith comes home from college on Saturday. We have a team of Drs. waiting here for her. She is to see a neurologist in Ky this Thursday before she returns here. Please pray for her safe travels, wisdom for the Dr.s and some relief from the migraines and dizzyness. This has been going on since Oct. 18, her first visit to the ER.
My day off, gotta get to housework. ~New Neighbor
November 14, 2007 - Msg 58119: Hey to you, too Asa. It's just great that you have been able to post more often lately. Hope you are blessed today.

You know, I am wondering how much of a problem truancy is in the public schools. I know it seems overboard to require a doctor's excuse for most kids but I guess it's because of the few who take advantage. Maybe they should change the policy to requiring excuses from those who are often truant instead. That's one thing I really like about the little school Erin attends, they are really laid back and don't even ask for an excuse for an abscence. The school is small enough that if a child were to be absent often, they would just pick up the phone and call the parents. So far, Erin has only been absent for a half a day this year but it's nice not to feel the pressure that I felt in the last school she attended (lots of rules and doctor's excuses needed) and the reason the kids were out with illnesses is because parents sent their sick children to school because of the pressure put on them by the school to try to keep the kids from missing. So, the sick kids came anyway and passed their viruses on to the well kids, and thus went the cycle. Stupid, if you ask me. If my child is ill, she is staying home and resent I, like Merri, would resent having to take my child to the doctor for an excuse if I didn't think they needed to go. Ever notice, also, that when you take your child to the doctor, there are about 50 other nose-blowing, coughing, infected kids spreading germs in the waiting room, so you risk the kids picking up another bug from just being there? I don't like to take the kids to the doctor unless I absolutely have to. Most visits are not neccesary, in my opinion, and have lead to the overuse of antibiotics that is causing the "superbugs" we are hearing about like "Staph Gone Wild". OK, I'm off the soapbox.

Boo
November 14, 2007 - Msg 58120: Hey NN, prayers for your daughter, for sure...

Boo
November 14, 2007 - Msg 58121: Speaking of children, we had another 2 year old die locally from abuse. I don't know what is happening in this community! Both the little one who was hit by the truck and this latest death were related to parental neglect/abuse. I found out my sister knew the little boy who was hit by the truck because the apartment complex he lived in was next door to the church where my sister is a secretary. She said that a few months ago the little 2 yr old had wandered over to the church with a couple of other little boys and Susan told the other older boys to take him home to his mother. I wish she had called the police instead. On another tragic note, the truck driver who hit the boy died of a heart attack during the week of the boy's funeral. Such a horrible situation.

Better get Erin ready for school..

Boo
November 14, 2007 - Msg 58122:
Morning Porch

Sunny and 60's today "Lake Effect" tomorrow

Merri-Sorry to hear about the kids coming down sick also. A couple of years ago my oldest daughter had pneumonia and that did put a scare into me. Wow, all three of you having it well we'll certainly be praying for you and your kids.

Asa-When my daughter had pneumonia I didn't get a Doctors excuse for her to miss gym and her grade dropped down to a 60 for that 10 weeks which caused her to miss the honor roll. That's the only time she's ever missed it and it was because of gym class and her coach knew she had pneumonia all her teachers knew. But, I didn't get her the Doctors excuse. Which, is my fault but I thought we were all aboard with it.

Mavis & Romeena We have quite a few black squirrels around here. Actually, we have black, white, gray and red squirrels. The black, white, and gray ones are big critters, the size of a cat, with big fluffy tails, they almost look like those newer style dusters. The red ones are much smaller though. I'll try and get a picture of the bigger ones.

Boo-I like the name "Knickers."

Speaking of squirrels, does anyone have the "flying" squirrels around their porch?

AFD-I forgot about the "Animal Ark Pets" those were some good ones also. Thanks for the web site, I'm heading over there next.

Sterling-It's funny you brought up the Honeycrisp apples, I just bought some the other day. And, you're right they are good.

MDC-I like your APB list.
APBing for Mary Wiggins, Mrs Wiley, Fun Girl, Dixie, Irishster, Adelle, Slim, Smoky Mt hillbilly, Ky girl, Mavis, Rev Jr (Jr), and others.

auh2o
November 14, 2007 - Msg 58123: Okay - here's the teach talking. . .yes, it is because of the truancy issues that schools are requiring notes. For some schools - they then have proof that (esp. jr. high on up) that the student was indeed at home and the note wasn't forged or the child is skipping school just to hang with friends. At one school that I go t0 - if your child is reported absent and you have not called in, they will call you to find out where your child is. This helps with runaways and the truancy. Some parents hate it - esp. those that have good kids who never miss a day - and some love it - those who have misbehaving children who would run to the mall or hang out a friend's house. If the school can't account for the missing child - the school can get in trouble for not reporting the child missing. At my kids' school - we have 5 parent days that are counted as excused. It is preferable to have a doctor's note but they also know that some kids really don't need to see the doctor for a bad cold.

auh20 - I can't believe that you couldn't appeal your daughter's grade. That is ridiculous. I probably would have gone back to the doctor and had them change the grade. And dropping it to a 60 for a one time thing - then I would be contacting the school board or the curriculum committee to have a look at that policy.

I can be quite vocal on school issues. Sorry!

Would love to hit Mayberry for real but it probably won't be for Mayberry Days unless they can get a goat show scheduled! Ha Ha

Looking for some more new babies today - the maternity watch has started.

homemaker
November 14, 2007 - Msg 58124: You know, Homemaker, I never really thought about it in the sense of knowing where the children are. Seems to me that it would make sense to call the parents of children who don't show up, just to be sure all was well. Where Erin goes now, I can watch her go right into the building but in her last school, she had to walk around to the back where I couldn't see her and sometimes I would wonder what would happen if someone was lurking back there and decided to just carry her off because most of the time, there were very few people around. I know that sounds paranoid but it used to cross my mind. I mean, if something like that were to happen and nothing was done when the child didn't show up for school, nobody would even know the child was missing until the end of the day when it was time to pick the child up. Kind of scary, really, especially when you are talking about little ones. I know it would be very rare for something like that to happen, but these days its not impossible. Little ones really need supervision all the time.

Boo
November 14, 2007 - Msg 58125:

auh2o, that's just awful about your daughter. Some of these schools are getting ridiculous with their rules. I do understand truancy is a very real problem, but most parents can't afford to run to the doctor unless it's an emergency. Right now, I'm glad to say, an excuse note from a parent is sufficient at my kids' school. I hope they don't implement a new rule about excuse notes having to come from a doctor. If they do, I fear more parents than ever will be sending kids to school sick.

Speaking of kids, I don't remember what mine were reading at age 7. One of them was on par with her age group, but the other was well advanced. (I wish she were that advanced in math, like her sister. LOL) In 5th grade she won the President's Award for Academic Achievement (I think that's what it's called) and got a medal and a letter from President and Mrs. Bush. I was one quite proud mama! With one kid good in English and the other good in Math, you'd think they'd tutor each other, but noooo...... :-)

BOO, I loved reading about Knickers romping in the yard! He sounds like a cutie. The situation with the little boy and the truck driver is heartbreaking.

Mavis, what kind of bird do you have? I'm sure you mentioned it, but I must have missed it. I love birds -- especially talking birds!

Prayers for all the Porchsters and their family and loved ones. I'll be back later; right now I have to get some more photos scanned for my brother and his family. I'm *finally* going through old family photos after all these years and boy is it time consuming!

~De§~