May 17, 2008 - Msg 62875: Howdy, neighbors. Spot, you sure do cook things just the way I like 'em. Rare burgers and near-burnt hot dogs. I like plenty of char on those doggies, and if they split, so much the better. Then some chopped sweet onion, some relish, grated cheese and a drizzle of chili - hooboy, that's good! Oh, and don't forget the mustard!

Beautiful day here today, 82 and light breeze, blue skies with a few puffy white clouds, so pretty. I love a day like this. God is good.

I think I'll take little Starr out to the arbor and read for a while. She loves to go outside, but I can't let her run around, unfortunately. She'd probably fall in the pond, but the biggest threat is that dratted hawk. I'm just not willing to take that chance. Be blessed, folks. --Romeena
May 17, 2008 - Msg 62876: Just thought I'd sweep before I headed home. Starr went under the rockers and dusted for me - she can get under there without even stooping, you know. Must be convenient at times, to be just 8 inches tall at the shoulder. --Romeena
May 17, 2008 - Msg 62877: Boy the dogs were good Romeena!..thanks...supper lets eat a light salad with grilled chicken on top..im still full from the bbq..my day is about done here at work..gona go home and mow grass!..back at 6am to keep the Church lights on..you better dust Starr off now Ro...SPOT
May 17, 2008 - Msg 62878: Nascar allstar race is on race fans!..where is everybody?..I posted the post above 4 hrs ago at work?...is something wrong with my comp here at home...4 hrs with no posts?..well will check in a bit ... got some taco meat left over for the top of the salads!.....hum...no post...hum...SPOT
May 17, 2008 - Msg 62879: Did I miss a meeting or something?..yall change the meeting place?..whose is on the phone calling bunch?...SPOT
May 17, 2008 - Msg 62880: Hi All.
Will it raining tonight.
TOM

May 18, 2008 - Msg 62881: Well, Spot, it looks like nobody called me or Tom either, since we're the only ones here. Maybe they're all over at the Gigolo Club in Yancey - it is Saturday night, after all. --Romeena
May 18, 2008 - Msg 62882: Romeena guess we missed the get together?..well its a great Sunday morning..I will keep the Church lights on and catch me a sermon on the tube..breakfast will be on the run..sausage and bisquits and grits for who wants them..mustard and mayo...prayers...hopw the porch did not stay out to late at the club..bet Asa had something to do with it!:).....will check in...SPOT
May 18, 2008 - Msg 62883: Morning, Spot and Tom. Yep, I'll bet Asa was at the bottom of that trip to Yancey. I saw him over at Weaver's the other day, shopping for a new toolbelt. I declare, he gets one of those things on, and he just goes wild.

Well, I'm off to get ready for church. Got to leave a few minutes early and pick up a friend who's having some sciatic nerve problems and just doesn't feel like driving. See you all this afternoon. --Romeena
May 18, 2008 - Msg 62884: Sorry, Tom. My "bolding" didn't work up there. Guess I did it wrong. --Romeena
May 18, 2008 - Msg 62885: Good Moring will it look like everyone just was too bust to sit on the porch.
Romeen I have some of my ross what bud on rhim.
but the two you send did not make it at the end of wintr.
but I git two new one, now to keep the bag off the leave.

TOM.

May 18, 2008 - Msg 62886: Well, I'm back and all I'm gonna say is "that was some act!". The new toolbelt worked wonders. Sorry ya'll missed it Ro, SPOt and Tom. Didn't meant to exclude you but Possum and Homemaker called me and said they just thought it up...they wanted it to be a "whim" but I put on clean underwear anyways. Then when we got there, we discovered Me-They, Auh2o and Sterling sitting at a table way back in a dark corner of the room, trying not to be noticed...

Mavis, I need some dog advice....this pup, Gizzy is attached to me like I was made of flypaper. I hoping it just because he still feels insecure in a new place, but he has alot of anxiety when I'm not around. He learns quick, though. Bruce was home last night so I didn't want him in my bed (uh, the dog, I mean...haha) and so it took the time it took for Bruce to take a shower to teach the dog not to jump on bed and to lie down in his bed next to my bed. He stayed there all night until I hear him get up around 6:30 so I put him out to "go". I just wish he didn't get so anxious and have to be able to see me all the time. If I am sitting, he is in my lap, if I go to the bathroom, he is on the rug at my feet. It's like having a white wart on my side! haha...no, not that bad. I just am fretting about leaving him when I have to go somewhere. Guess he has to get used to it, like little Starr.

Better get ready for preachin'.

Boo
May 18, 2008 - Msg 62887: Hee, Hee, Boo good post about last night...I checked my voice mail and had no Yancey trip message...oh-well..busy here at work wind and squirrells blowing fuses...but we are getting all back on as we can....lets hit Steak-n-Shake after Church...Rev we will UPD ya samich and baked beans...TOM you Romeena and I may just have to plan our own road trip one night!....SPOT
May 18, 2008 - Msg 62888: "UPD"?..fat paws..
May 18, 2008 - Msg 62889: Hi All.
Will the rain stop for now, but it's a little wind.
Spot that will be fun to do.


TOM

May 18, 2008 - Msg 62890: Im with ya TOM..wow its hr"s since the post just above ...guess we "Really" missed the meeting place!...well Im still gona cook a big Sunday supper: Fried Chicken,mashed taters,fried okra.fried squash,field peas,greenbeans,corn on the cob,butters rolls tea,water..green onions..and a jar of hot peppers will be on the table...maybe that will get some of the porchsters back!...well my time is about over here at work,get off at 6 ..see yall at supper..prayers...SPOT
May 18, 2008 - Msg 62891: I will be there Spot

TOM

May 18, 2008 - Msg 62892: Well, I'm sorry some of y'all got excluded from last night's trip to the Gigolo Club,but homemaker & me got all flustered at the thought of our "Mullet Man" in his new toolbelt and we just forgot to call everyone! So,my apologies to Ro,Tom,and Spot. Can I still come over for supper,spot?

Y'all have a good evening!
*****SMILES*****
possum under a rock


May 18, 2008 - Msg 62893:
Howdy porch family. I just got in from north Ga. So I'm gonna head to bed. Been a busy weekend.

Boo...sounds like you've got a friend in Gizzy.

Thanks Spot for trucking my meals to me. They sure were good. (My wife is over here laughing at me and shaking her head as I post this)

Well I'm gonna hit the bed. Praying for all the porch family.
-REV.

May 19, 2008 - Msg 62894: Well, REV, Gizzy is a friend but I ended up taking him to my mother-in-law. I thought I needed to before he got any more attached to us. His anxiety at being seperated from me was hard because we are out alot and I felt very sorry for him having to be here alone. Also, he just wouldn't have anything to do with the kids and was nervous around Erin, especially. I thought (and Sean too) that Gizzy would be happier in the long run if he was with m-i-law. She lives alone is really very good with dogs. She is lonely now since her husband died in December and I just wanted for her to have his compaionship because I think he will be perfect for her when he is there for a bit. When I took him over there, he came to her when she called and sat on her lap and fell asleep. She told me cried for awhile when I left but he seems fine now and ate a big dinner. Gizzy will be visiting with her often with grandma and is still part of the family and the kids didn't seem to care that he went to live with Grandma. Oh well...I feel like a scizophrenic pet owner!

Well, the kids are wanting me to watch TAGS with them and the Pickle episode is on...

Boo
May 19, 2008 - Msg 62895: Does it sound like I am trying to talk myself into believing it was the right thing to do?? haha

Boo
May 19, 2008 - Msg 62896: Good Monday morning porch, Hope everyone is up and ready for the week. I have a busy week ahead which is a good thing.

My kids are finishing up their last week of school. Patrick is finished after today and Beth will be finished Wednesday at noon. Patrick is starting a job this evening at 5:30. He is going to work at the Dairy Hart. Dairy Hart is a family owned short order type resturant. They also sell ice cream, sundaes, milk shakes, hot fudge sundaes and such.
It should be a good experience for him. He also has some yard work contracted to do as well.

Maybe we can all meet at Dairy Hart one evening for dinner and he can cook for us. :)

Cool here this morning with a chance of rain this afternoon. I have been wearing long sleeves and a sweater ( and slacks) to work most of this month. It is too chilly for sandals and skirts at least for me. Maybe it will warm up some in June.

Lunch will be: roast beef sandwhiches, SLAW, and chips. dessert will be little debbies cakes. sweet tea to drink.

You guys have a great Monday.
Prayers and blessings to everyone.

Big Maude
May 19, 2008 - Msg 62897: Good morning everyone. Just stopped by for a moment to say howdy. I'll stop back later.

And by the way, I was not up in Yancy at that Gigolo Club on Saturday. I was home watching that George Raft movie of tv.

Me-They
May 19, 2008 - Msg 62898: Boo, that wasn't me at the club, must have been someone who looked like me. Darn imposters! ;)
(I like your excuse too, Me-They)


You know, folks, I try to be a somewhat easy-going guy, but sometimes a guy sees something that gets his ire up and he has to say something to the people who did it, and that just happened to me. My family and I usually enjoy watching Ninja Warrior on G4(Ninja Warrior is a Japanese contest show where people go through an obstacle course full of interesting, and difficult, obstacles), but last night during one of the commercial breaks, I(and unfortunately Kai as well) saw one of the most disgusting commercials I have ever seen(and that's saying a lot because there are a lot of disgusting commercials).
I won't go into detail, but it involves how mouthwatering Mentos supposedly are, and apparently a thirsty woman.
Well, I wrote to the G4 channel to tell them I will have to stop watching if that commercial continues to pop up on their channel, but after viewing their website and reading about who they are trying to attract as viewers, I don't expect they'll care much. I also told them I was going to write to the company that makes Mentos, and I did.

We'll see what responses I get, if any.


Kai is so excited. Not because school is almost over, but because this week on Wednesday the class is going roller skating. I can't chaperone because I work that day unfortunately.
Boy, all we used to do at our end-of-school party was go to the park. :)

-Sterling Holobyte

May 19, 2008 - Msg 62899: Sterling, I saw that Mentos commercial once, and it is very suggestive, to say the least. Hooray for you for speaking up. --Romeena
May 19, 2008 - Msg 62900: Just passing thru and thought I would say hey. So Hey! Remember go out and be somebody.
Sp00ky Benson
May 19, 2008 - Msg 62901: I don't think I have ever seen that Mentos commmercial, thankfully. Good for you, Sterling, for doing something.

Tomorrow is the anniversary of Karen's stroke and I went back into the archives for last year to help me remember some things. You were all such a comfort to me at that time. Such sweet words of sympathy and so many prayers. I was thinking about how tough the years has been for all of us. Besides Karen, we lost our Millie, and Sugarplum. I think we all have grown closer because of what we have suffered together. Thanks again to my biggest support group and my dear, dear friends. Knowing you are all here is just a huge help to me.

Love,
Boo
May 19, 2008 - Msg 62902: Hi All. cool day here.
No rain.

A COUNTRY GARDEN

An old country garden!
How great is its worth,
With vegetables planted
And flowers intersperesed.
A row or tomatatoes,,
Beans parsley and peas;
Gladiola and dahlia
Among all od these.
An old country garden!
What wealth it enfolds;
Tis food for the body
And food for the soul.

TOM

May 19, 2008 - Msg 62903: Hey there. You still have our prayers, BOO.

Thanks for the nice poem, TOM. I finally finsihed planting our garden yesterday.

BOO: Sorry you had to give up little GIzzy. But at least you can visit him anytime you want to.

ROMEENA: Up until this one, all our dogs have slept in our bed (Mazy sleeps with Chad). It doesn't bother me, as long as everything is regularly washed.

STERLING: Good for you!

Hey, SPOOKY. I don't think we've ever been formally intoduced, but it's nice to hear from you.

Thanks for lunch, MAUDE.

I just read this news blurb. It sure would make my commute to work much nicer: "MORRIS, Ill. - You'd need a lot of milk to dunk all the cookies that spilled on an interstate highway in Illinois this morning. A trailer loaded with 14 tons of double-stuffed Oreos overturned, dumping boxes of cookies all over the road and the median about 50 miles southwest of Chicago."

All I ever get is gas fumes, the ocassional running deer, and sometimes obscene gestures.

Me-They
"Of course you smell gas! What do you think this thing ruins on, coal?!"

May 19, 2008 - Msg 62904: Haha, talking about being at the right place at the right time! Oreos are great.

Thank you for the poem, TOM. It is really hot here today. The first really hot day we have had this year so I don't mind it so much.

Boo
May 19, 2008 - Msg 62905:
I just saw Bailey's Bad Boy speed thru with celery in his back seat.
MDC
May 19, 2008 - Msg 62906: Hey Y'all!
I've been in Kentucky for the last few days to visit my parents and attend the wedding of a friend for 24 years! We met in 1st grade. I hope everyone has been doing well. I'll read the archives and write more later.
Blessings,
~Lucy

May 19, 2008 - Msg 62907: Good afternoon, everyone. Sp00ky, it's good to see you. Stop and set a spell, why don't you?

Me-They, I'm amazed. I would never have guessed that you'd allow a furkid to share your bed. It just doesn't sound like something you'd do. As for me, I wouldn't have it any other way, but I'm surprised at you. Proud of you, too!

You say it's hot there, Boo? Well, you
South Texans ain't got nothing on us here in the northern part of the state. It's 96 right now, at 3:53 p.m. There is a breeze blowing, though, and it's not terribly humid, so it's not too bad. Now come August, it will be another story. There will be days when the leaves just hang on the trees without moving at all, and the air is so humid you can almost drink it, and the temperature is in three digits. Argh. I'm not looking forward to that.

Eloise and I went out for lunch, and then to Sam's to pick up a few things. They had whole beef tenderloins for $8.58/lb. Wow! I bought the smallest one they had, and it was still over $50, but I'm about to divide it up and freeze it. Will get about 8-10 meals out of it, so that's pretty cheap. Actually, I'll get more, because one of those meals will be a roast, and I'll get at least four meals out of that. I'll get it down to less than $5 a meal, and pretty darned good meals at that.

Well, the fountain just ceased flowing out back, guess the filter has clogged again. The heat and sunshine is really increasing the algae. Guess I'd better go clear it out. Be blessed, everyone. --Romeena
May 19, 2008 - Msg 62908: Well, I had bible study at the rehab tonight and it was positively gut-wrenching. A couple of the girls wanted to stay after and talk to us and they were crying. I won't go into the details but they were in such pain and just didn't want to live. They have been through so much that they don't see any hope for their lives. One girl was the one who is the trouble maker who wrote the dirty note last week. She usually has this tough exterior and never shows any emotion. Tonight she said that she has been messing up her life long enough and wants to do good. She said she is just so messed up from her past and for the first time she shared with us that she had witnessed her mom shot and killed my her step father. She had just come to the end of her rope and let me tell you, once she opened the door to share her pain and anger, it was probably more pain than I have seen in quite a while. Please pray for Christine. I felt so helpless trying to talk to them. There is no way to answer their questions. One of the girls was the "cutter" I mentioned and talked about how she has been cutting since 10 because she wants so badly to die. She attempted suicide at 14 and ended up in ICU. She said she heard the doctor tell a relative that she wouldn't make it and she was so happy until she pulled through. She has no hope and has been so hurt by everyone that was supposed to love her. She is shutting down inside. She is losing faith because she feels that the Lord let the people in her life abuse her. God help that poor child, He is the only one who can. I can listen, pray, and love her but I can't fix her and sometimes that is a painful pill to swallow.

On a much, much brighter note; Sean was over at his best friend, Josh's house (he is one of the boys who we take to church, whose alcoholic mom I was telling you about recently), and Josh got a phone call from his real Dad who lives in another town. His dad was a rough truck driver who is in contact with Josh but doesn't see him that often. Anyway, his dad called to say that he had prayed to receive Christ. He said that he and his girlfriend were trucking to Houston when his tire blew out and he didn't have a spare, no cell phone, not much money so they were stranded. The girlfriend suggested that they pray and ask God tt help them. His response was something like, "God doesn't want to do something for somebody like me", and then a car drove up, rolled down the window and asked if they could help. It turned out to be a pastor, who bought them a new tire, and dinner and shared they gospel with him and he prayed to receive Christ as savior! Hee-hee, I am so excited I just want to shout.

Well, I have to go get Erin to bed...

Boo
May 19, 2008 - Msg 62909: What touching stories, Boo! Isn't it amazing how God operates? When you're in the lowest valley, it seems He always finds a mountaintop for you. Bless your little heart - you just go on and shout!

Well, Starr showed me a "first" today. I've shared before how she grieves when I leave her, tries to hide so I can't find her to put her in the bathroom, face always wet when I get home. I had been only about half kidding when I'd say she would cry when I left her. I thought she was probably just nervously chewing her toys and getting her face wet that way. After all, vets will tell you that animals don't "cry", at least not in the sense that people do.

Well, this morning I picked her up to put her in the bathroom, and she was just trembling so hard, and swallowing and yawning - all nervous reactions. I held her close for a minute, then held her out from me so I could see her face and talk to her. At that moment, she trembled even harder, and - this is true - tears welled up in her big brown eyes, and literally spilled over and rolled down her little cheeks. Now friends, if that's not crying, I don't know what you'd call it. Poor little thing!! I almost called my friend and cancelled our lunch date, but I realize that I can't stay with Starr 24/7, and somehow, she's going to have to learn to cope. So, I put extra toys in with her, and her favorite little blanket. Of course, she already has her cuddle bed, toys, her piddle pad, water, food, a couple of rugs - she's not exactly uncomfortable in there. She just hates to be left alone. But honestly, when those tears started to roll down her cheeks, I about lost it myself.

Would you believe it's still 86 degrees here, at 9:30 p.m.? I believe summer has arrived.

Be blessed, all. --Romeena

May 19, 2008 - Msg 62910:
Hello porch family...Another great day that the Lord has given us.

Boo....I'm sure Gizzy will be a lot of company for your MIL.

Maude....Dairy Hart sounds good to me. Let's all meet there sometimes in the future. Of course we'll have to leave a BIG tip for Patrick.

Sterling....I'm so glad you wrote the station even if they don't respond back. At least you did your part by letting them know. More of us Christians need to do the same thing.

Hello SpOOky.....nice to have you stop by the porch. Come on back and grab you a rocker anytime.

Boo...that is such great news about the dad receiving Christ. Come on and I'll shout with you! All of heaven is rejoicing with us. Thank You Jesus!

Ro....poor little Starr. I could just see those big tears as I read your post.

Tom...nice poem buddy....thanks.

Prayers for all our porch family. Nothing is too big for our God. Sleep good knowing that HE is watching over us.
-REV.
May 19, 2008 - Msg 62911: Rev you tell yer wife we have the meal trucking thing under control :)..hey gang been working on the barn all day...hope Maude has been feeding yall well..I will be back on the stove in the morning...im gona read the mail...SPOT
May 20, 2008 - Msg 62912: Gosh Ro, I wonder how long it will take for Starr to overcome her seperation anxiety, poor little thing. Oh, and thanks for the kind word, so true. I had not thought about it but you're right. I was burdened and hurting from the pain I saw at rehab and as soon as I got home, Sean told me about Josh's dad. There is so much blessing along with the tough stuff.

Thanks REV, you are a bright spot in my evenings. I always check in to see if you have been on the porch to say goodnight.

Putting gas in my Suburban is getting to be no fun at all. We are at 3.70 a gallon here and I am starting to think about how to conserve by staying at home more. I get frustrated by the price of groceries, too. I wish I had a garden to grow my own produce. My pastor have me some fresh squash out of his garden and I cooked it yesterday. I don't even like yellow squash but it was fantastic. Veggies from the garden do taste better, but why is that?

Better finish my coffee and get to work around here. It is harder to keep things straight when Erin is home!

Boo
May 20, 2008 - Msg 62913:
Hey Folks

Romeena-We had about 4 hours of snow yesterday. So far, summer is a Texas thing. Sorry, thang. That Starr, is one lucky pup.

auh2o
May 20, 2008 - Msg 62914: I wish gas were 3.70 - we are at 3.95-3.99. We have a goat show this weekend so we will be very busy. We are only taking a few.

We are just about rained out here - the high today is in the 60's but they say we will be dry through the weekend with almost 80. That will feel nice!

Great news for Josh's dad and for Josh. Small miracles are the best.

love to all -

hm
May 20, 2008 - Msg 62915: Haha! Auh20, I'll have you know I say "thing" and not "thang", although I have been know to say "ya'll" and "fixin' tuh". Four hours of snow? Really not that hard to imagine considering we did have a cool front here over the weekend, which is unusual this late in May for us. The weather here this winter and spring have been just spectacular but that's about to change...

Boo
May 20, 2008 - Msg 62916: Oh hey there, HM. Good luck with the goat show! I wish it was in the 60's here...that's perfect to me. By the way, any of you parents who have some creative ways to keep the kids busy during the summer, please share...

Boo
May 20, 2008 - Msg 62917: Good morning, all. Boo, how about giving Erin a little patch of dirt and some "spinash" seeds? Of course, it doesn't have to be spinach, it could be anything she'd like to plant. Pumpkins might be fun, then she could look forward to growing her own jack-o-lantern. How's the soil at the homestead? Is there an area with some pretty good soil where you could mark her out a little plot and let her grow some veggies? If the soil isn't too good, I'll bet you could get some manure from neighbors who have animals, and spread it over a little plot, then till or spade it in. Seeds are cheap, the work won't hurt her, and she would be so proud if she could put some food on the table. If it doesn't work out, there's nothing lost but a few seeds and a little sweat. Sean might want a space of his own - who knows? You could take them over there a few times a week and let them weed and work for an hour or so, while you sit in the shade and read! (heehee)

I bought some blackberries at Sam's yesterday, and they are absolutely delicious. It was a large box of them, less than $4, and the berries are as big as my thumb and very sweet. I'm finishing them off this morning, but I got three bowls of berries out of that box. About a half-teaspoon of sugar over them, a little heavy cream, and yum! I love berries of any kind. Hey, Boo, you could put in a berry patch on the homestead, too.

Auh2o, I just don't think I could handle a climate with such long winters and short summers. I'm a get-outside, barefoot kind of gal, and I think I'd just go crazy. As for Starr, I think she'd debate that "lucky" description with you. She is the most loving, affectionate little thing, and so forgiving, but she sure does hate it when I leave. I hope she outgrows that, I really don't like making her so unhappy. Still, as I said, she forgives me and we enjoy a good cuddle when I come home. I could go on and on about her, she's just got so much personality and and is so much fun. God was looking out for me. I think He already had this little girl in mind for me when my sweet Plum's time came. Starr was born July 28, and the Plum left me on August 16. There are so many similarities in the two, but just enough differences to keep me reminded that Starr is herself, an individual, not a copy. She's just a little delight.

By the way, Boo, you were very kind to include Sugarplum in the mention of porch friends we have lost in the past year. She may have been "just a dog", but she was so much more to me, and you folks were all so very kind to make her a real and accepted member of the porch.

Well, off I go. My landscaper friend is coming in the morning to help me with a couple of projects, and I need to start clearing out one bed before it gets too hot to work out there. It's 77 right now, very pleasant, so here I go. Be blessed, everyone. --Romeena
May 20, 2008 - Msg 62918: Good morning gang...Miss Sherry is on her way over and we are gona spend the day to gether...her grandson Mr Cayden graduates from kindergarden today so that will be an event tonight!...well Dad is in the garden so I guess I better help...will read in just a bit..lunch will be at Fridays yall got those?...its GOOD ..tater skins and burgers....SPOT
May 20, 2008 - Msg 62919: Hello Everyone:

SPOT: I will meet you at Fridays for lunch.

The "Dud"
May 20, 2008 - Msg 62920: Hello, I just got back from Dallas and spent 4 days with my 11 yr old daughter "Robyn". Went to her school graduation ceremony. The tech-savy parents at her school are so creative. Each year they have a power point presentation with all the kids being featured with video, still pictures, music and animation. She thinks it is so neat that there is a new singer on the charts named "Robyn". She loves her music.

ROMEENA: I love seeing my child, but I do not miss Metro/Plex traffic and the rude driving. We did go to the Dallas Arts District downtown (Dallas Museum of Art, Nasher Sculpture Garden and eat Mexican at Mia's, Bob's Steak & Chop House and breakfast every morning at J's in Addison.

ROMEENA, ASA & ME-THEY: Yes, La. Lobsters are crawfish. You have never had crawfish as good as the "Dud" boils them. I love shrimp and lobsters also and would gladly boil them iin some mild new bay seasoning for you at the next boil. If you like lobster or shrimp you will love the "Dud"'s boiled Dads. I will tone down the seasonings for you and make a great melted garlic butter sauce. I can eat a crawfish every 2 seconds. You have to cook them just right and a break one open and suck the tail meat right in to my mouth. At the Jazz fest when I go to the crawfish vendors and start eating people crowd around. I have met so many people from around the world at Jazz Fest who are fascinated by crawfish (Their Exotic). One of my talents I guess. Romeena I won a crawfish eating contest in the West End in Downtown Dallas two years ago. The prize was three nights lodging in the French Quarter. I had a great time I am a member of the PCEA. Professional Crawfish Eaters Assoc.

Thanks for letting me sit on the porch.

The "Dud"
May 20, 2008 - Msg 62921: Thanks for lunch SPOT. busy at work today. will try to check in later today. Prayers to all.

Big Maude
May 20, 2008 - Msg 62922: SPOT: You would love Bob's in Dallas. They have a steak on the menu called a "Cote de Boeuf". It is a 22 OZ. bone in Ribeye steak. Sides are fantastic. Glazed whole roasted carrots and creamed spinach for the child and I. She likes the 9 oz filet. I wish she did not like it well done like her mother. I never met so many people who want their steak well done as I do in Dallas. Medium rare is my selection.

The "Dud"
May 20, 2008 - Msg 62923: DUD: I was getting pretty hungry for lunch until your description of eating crawfish. Sorry, but in my book they are a small step above insects. But then again, I eat shellfish but can't think too much about what I'm doing when I do. That 22-ounce steak probably goes by another name: "The Heartattack." ;) I'm a M/W man myself. I may eat animal flesh but don't what to be reminded of teh fact while I'm chowing down.

BOO: What you do with those girls is amazing. Man, you are in the trenches for the Lord. Thanks for all you do, and the gentle conviction you provide me to do more. And that's great about Josh's dad. Praise the LOrd!

If you figure out a good solution for Erin, please let me know; I've got two that are going to be in that same boat soon.

ROMEENA: You know me, full of suprises ;).

JACK FROST (AUH2O): What was that, a drive-by post?

Y'all take care. Talk to you tomorrow. For all you AI fans, tonight's the final competition.

Me-They
May 20, 2008 - Msg 62924: It was kind of funny being in Dallas this weekend. Many people including myself and child were wearing Dallas Stars hockey clothes and caps. Too bad the Stars were eliminated from the playoffs last night. There are not many hockey fans back in N.E. La. Saw the game at a good friends house who has two adorable daughters that Robyn likes. Dallas, when it is hot is not a tourist attraction and the panhandler/beggars are more numerous than ever. Traffic is better on the weekends because of the price of GAS. Used to be weekend traffic was almost as bad as the weekdays.

The "Dud"
May 20, 2008 - Msg 62925: TV land is going to show TAGS # 65, "Andy's Rich Girlfriend" tonite according to the schedule guide. The wonderful Peggy McMillan. This is one of my favorite episodes and when Andy doesn't think he is good enough for her it makes you think.

The "Dud"
May 20, 2008 - Msg 62926: Hi All.
Will it cold,wet and the rain stop for now.
I wish it would stay warm for I can worke outside


TOM
May 20, 2008 - Msg 62927: Joanna Moore as Peggy. The "Dud"
May 20, 2008 - Msg 62928: Do any of ya'll remember the GUNSMOKE episode in which Joanna Moore played the Southern Belle and made Miss Kitty jealous?

The "Dud"
May 20, 2008 - Msg 62929:
Two roads diverged in a yellow wood,
And sorry I could not travel both... oops, wrong
Frost, sorry

auh2o

May 20, 2008 - Msg 62930: Hey Y'all,
I need to ask for prayers. Nick is seriously OCDing over his latest girlfriend. The Mr. had me check our phone bill (Vonage rocks) and I found that he called her 407 times so far this month. Honestly, I'm afraid he will become a stalking short tempered boy in jail if things don't change. The Mr. said he would talk with him since Nick and I are not seeing eye to eye very well lately. Please pray that Bryan handles it well with Nick and Nick gets a clue.
Thanks!
Blessings,
~Lucy
May 20, 2008 - Msg 62931:
You got em Lucy, prayers for bryan and Nick.

Let' all watch ep #65 tonite and see Andy and Peggy together again!

BOO- Maybe next week you could ask Christine and the other one if they would like to receive Christ. I am just taking the lead from your story about Josh's dad. Maybe they are ready also. Seems like they have hit bottom. They have my prayers for sure, and also for you to have the courage of Jesus to ask them.

RO- When we leave home, we put on some soft music for our cat. Perhaps that would sooth Starr a bit.

Rev- Our Dbacks still winning. A good start, but can they endure thru October?? ha

Auh20- 108 here yesterday! Please ship us some snow.
Prayers continue for Burma, China and US midwest!
Spot is buying at White Castle tonight.
MDC
Barney: OK number 3, no mollycoddling!


May 20, 2008 - Msg 62932: Thanks MDC, they (and I) could sure use your prayers. Both of the girls I spoke about have both prayed to receive Christ and they never miss bible study. They are just a typical example of the kind of girls we have each week (they obvioudly don't look or behave like your typical "churched" Christian). We talk to them often about what it means to be saved and encourage them to grow in Christ but they have such difficult obstacles to overcome. I think it's hard for most of us who have been in church for a long time to realize sometimes that there are so many out there just like Christine. Hard to fathom as we sit in our clean, multi-million dollar American churches , where most try to hide their dysfunction from the world. Most girls like Christine would never think about going to a church for help because of fear of how they might be judged or treated, so we try to go to them and hopefully (we harp on this ALOT) get them to understand there is help among God's people. When they leave the facility, it is crucial that they find a church family as a support so we try very hard to help them see that we really love them and that they can find help in the right church.

Hey to Lucy. Always good to hear from you when you can drop in. Hope all works out with Nick...prayers for your family.

Boo
May 20, 2008 - Msg 62933: i love my mom and my dad. listen to me that God died on the cross for us, me and you. he loves me and you.

erin
May 20, 2008 - Msg 62934: Hi, neighbors. Just passing through, will be going to the annual Deacons and Wives fish fry at church tonight. They always invite the widows of deacons who have passed on, and offer an escort. Isn't that nice? I refused the invitation for the first few years, but they never gave up, and finally I gave in and went, and am glad I did. I've attended for the past five or six years now, and it's always fun.

MDC, I leave the TV on in the bedroom for her, which is what she's used to hearing, but nothing seems to help. She just wants me here. I'm not used to such attachment. The Plum and I were extremely close, and she didn't like me leaving, but she didn't cry big splashy tears, for pete's sake! I've never seen a dog do that before.

Wow, Lucy! 407 phone calls in less than a month? You may not have to do anything about it - the girl's parents may take care of it. I know if a boy had called one of our daughters that many times, my husband would have forbidden them to answer the phone, ever ever again! Or he would have answered, which would not have been a pleasant experience for the boy. Nick has got it bad, huh? How old is he now?

I'm so thankful I'm not having to raise teenagers these days. My prayers are with those of you who are - I think it's tougher than when mine were growing up. It took a village back then too, but the village was a help. These days, I think it's a hindrance.

Well, gotta run. Be blessed. --Romeena
May 20, 2008 - Msg 62935:
Ro- problem is the girl probably has a cell phone also, so the dad never hears it ring. Just my guess.
Also you're right, back "then" the 'villages' had moms at home, married couples, full churches, no cellphones or video games, and a "collective parenting attiude."
BOO- glad they know Jesus, but maybe a renewal of their committment to Him would be a good idea.
"OK, tonight let's re-commit ourselves to.."
Just a thought Prayers for all.
MDC
May 20, 2008 - Msg 62936: Hi, all - I'm back from the fish fry, full of catfish and hushpuppies, and they even had green tomato relish! Yum!

MDC, where is it written that the girl must have her cell phone in her possession? Depending upon her service plan, those 407 calls could be running up a big bill on HER phone. When her dad sees that, the problem may be solved. He can yank that phone if he sees fit. I'll promise you, my husband would have seen fit to do just that! Of course, Nick shouldn't be making all those calls, and Lucy has already expressed her concerns about that. I'm sure she and Nick's dad will solve it, but it can get sticky. Teenage boys are weird critters who often do strange things. Their hormones are controlling their thoughts, and what seems totally illogical to us doesn't look that way to them.

Funny story - when our oldest daughter was in high school, a young man from a different culture became very enamored of her. She was always nice to everyone, and made no exception with him, and unfortunately, he misinterpreted this to mean that she "liked" him. He tried to date her, she politely refused, but that didn't stop him. One night, shortly after midnight, her brother was awakened by guitar music and slightly offkey singing in the courtyard out front, which happened to be just beneath his window, not hers. He came and woke his dad and me. My husband pulled on some pants and went charging to the front door, yanked it open and bellowed, "Who are you and what do you think you're doing?" The slightly inebriated father of the group, swaying on his feet, proceeded to introduce himself and his three sons, including the one who was interested in my daughter. He then had the nerve to ask that she be brought to the door "so we can sing to her, and make her like my boy." I thought my husband was going to stroke out. He stepped out the door, all 6'4" and 280 lbs of him, confronted the 5'6", maybe 130 lb father and his skinny sons, and asked in a very controlled voice if they wanted to leave or did they want him to sail them across the yard to their car, one by one? Shaking in their shoes now, they scrambled and ran, guitars were tossed in the trunk, and off they went. The lady in question slept peacefully through it all. Ha! The kids still re-tell that story and laugh about it. My husband was the gentlest of men, but when sufficiently riled, you really didn't want to be in his path. Mess with me or his kids, and the lamb turned into a lion.

Well, guess I'll go cuddle little Starr. She was all tear-wet when I got home, yet again. Poor little puppy. --Romeena
May 20, 2008 - Msg 62937: That story reminds me of Mr. Darlin and the Darlin boys serenadin' Aunt Bee out on the lawn.

Poor Starr...get her a brother or sister, Romeena! (I'm one to talk...I didn't even keep my last dog for 48 hours. heehee).

Boo


May 20, 2008 - Msg 62938:
Hello porch family....So good to see ya'll.

Lucy....you can be assured that I will be praying for Bryan and Nick. As MDC said, the girl probably has her own cell phone and if they are on unlimted minutes, her dad may not even know about the situation. Your husband may have to speak to her dad himself to control the problem. I will be praying.

MDC...yep...those DBacks are hot right now.

Amen to your post Erin! HE sure does love us. You keep telling everyone about HIS love.

Ro...glad you enjoyed your fish fry. Sounds good. Love the story about your husband and daughter. I can just see those guys scrambling to get out of there.

Spot....Hope you and Miss Sherry had a good day together. Did ya'll get those storms in your area? We got some lightning and rain but not much wind.

Well you all have a good night's sleep. I am praying for all the porch family. Be sure to keep your eyes on Jesus.....because His eyes are surely watching over us.
-REV.
May 21, 2008 - Msg 62939: Had two new babies born last nite - whoever thought I would be a goat midwife? It was a little boy and a little bit bigger girl. The momma's name is Ripple so I am thinking the little girl will be named Ripplin Brooke or something that goes with Ripple. Ripple's momma was named Splash - so I have a water theme going.
Our other little girl Sky Spirit is doing absolutely awesome. We can't wait to show her.

The last days of school are winding down.

hm
May 21, 2008 - Msg 62940:

Hey Folks

Romeena- I understand what you are saying, if ya wanna be barefoot all year round (and that sound good) this may not be the place. But, I gotta say, the weather is one of the best features of the gulag that is New York. I love the winter, there is nothing like living in the fury of a snow storm, a good one, with about four feet of snow. I know they can be dangerous but I'd be willing to bet that more people die or are injured in a rain storm. And, when Spring just flat out explodes with greenery and wild flowers, well Ro, that is just my time of year. I know I said it before but the renewal of Spring leaves me humbled. The absolute change in scenery with each of the four seasons is just a joy. However, I do wonder what it would be like to be able to putter in the yard the whole year, that does sound very good also.

Me-They I wasn't strying to be short with my posts yesterday. I guess I was attempting to be measured, if you know what I mean, and I know you do. I think you do the same. History, politics, world events, that's what I love to discuss, from all perspectives. I think that's how we learn and if we're not learning, what's left? But, I don't want to send folks a running.

Rev- You are a real presence here on the Porch.

MDC- 108, Wow! Our last three days combined is about 120. Get ye self some sun block.

auh2o
May 21, 2008 - Msg 62941: Good morning, all. Auh2o, I hear you, about the changing of the seasons. We don't get those distinct changes, and I think it would be nice. Our Spring is nice, really brightens up winter's dull landscape, but it fades slowly into summer. Fall is seen not only in the cooler temperatures but in the changing colors of the leaves. Certain parts of Texas have a fairly spectacular leaf show every year. Lost Maples Park down in the Hill Country draws people from all over the state, very pretty. Then the leaves drop, and winter is mostly gray, sometimes wet, and not really all that cold. Into the 'teens now and then, but snow is a rarity. I love snow, and since my husband was from Michigan, we would be up there in the winter now and then, and I loved it. The family would look at me like I was a nut, when I'd be all excited about a snowfall, and I'd hear mumbles like "Maybe we should let her shovel it" and such. Still, it's pretty, and I wish we got some around here. Ha! Two inches of snow, and they close the schools. An ice storm, and businesses shut down as well. We're not prepared or equipped for it, and it just paralyzes us.

Boo, I think Starr would be insulted, horrified and heartbroken if I brought another dog into this house. She enjoys Bentley's visits, because she understands they ARE visits, and he'll be going home. A friend brought her little Yorkie over one day, and Starr camped in my lap and wouldn't leave. Sugarplum did the same thing, when a friend brought her dog over. I made her get down so I could hold the other little dog, and she went under the kitchen table and pouted, refused to come out until the little dog went home. Then she kept giving me grieved looks all evening. No, Maltese don't share their territory or their people very happily. Besides, it's too hard to travel with two dogs, and I do like to take my baby along.

Well, my landscaper friend will be here shortly. We're going to revise some flowerbeds out front. The lambs ears has taken over, wild oxalis has invaded, and there is work to be done. Clean them out and plant something pretty. I have five flats of impatiens waiting out there, and am about to go pick up a few flats of begonias. Such fun! By the way, my garden center neighbor (who is my landscaper friend's brother) does give me a 20% discount on the plants I buy, so that helps a lot, especially when his prices are already lower than the major garden centers. With all the dirt I have to fill around here, it could get expensive at regular prices.

Be blessed, all. --Romeena
May 21, 2008 - Msg 62942: Oh, one more thing. MDC, I guess I'm just thinking about how it would have been around here if cell phones had been available when our kids were growing up. They might have had them to carry for safety's sake, but they would not have had them in their bedrooms, to yak on all night long. Their dad would likely have had a bowl on the dining room table, and all phones would be accounted for at bedrime. He finally did install an extension phone in our older daughter's room when she turned 16, but the understanding was the same as it was for the other phones in the house - no phone calls until homework was finished, and none after 10p.m. under any circumstances. He caught her on the phone one night about 11:30, unplugged the phone and kept it in our room for about a month. When he gave it back, it was with the understanding that the loss would be permanent if it happened again. It didn't. He was not above picking the phone up at random times just to check, and the kids knew that. He was strict in many ways, but he spent an entire day with that same daughter, taking her all over town until she found THE dress to wear to prom, and paid out money we didn't have in order for her to have the dress she wanted. He was a bit crusty on the outside, but he was the original "marshmallow center". --Romeena
May 21, 2008 - Msg 62943: Right, Ro. I have a phone for Sean because we don't have a house phone right now (I also like being able to get ahold of him when he is out), but it is one of those plans which severly limits his minutes, but I can call him or he can call me, unlimited. It's working out for us and it's cheap. He isn't even allowed to send text messages because they aren't free on our plan. When I was growing up, we had one phone in the kitchen and it was attached to the wall, so there was no talking to people on the phone late at night. Boy, have things changed from one phone on the wall to people having a phone in their ear (literally) 24-7.

Gotta go run some errands.

Boo
May 21, 2008 - Msg 62944: I'll say things have changed. When I was a kid, we had one phone also, but it wasn't attached to the wall. It was black, the receiver cradle was up high on the top of the thing, and of course it was a rotary dial. We were very avant garde, though. Ours sat in a little niche in the wall in the hallway, and there was a rack built in that held the phone book. Here's the clincher. It was a 4-party line! I remember feeling very posh when my dad was able to wangle a 2-party line for us. (He had a friend at the phone company.) And yes, old women did get on the line and talk about their ailments for hours on end. It could be very frustrating.

My grandmother was on a party line also, and two of the other parties were Hispanic, and spoke Spanish on the phone. That irritated my grandma to no end, she called it "jabbering". I recall one occasion when she was fussing about it, and said "I hate it when they do that, because I can't understand a word they say. Takes all the fun out of listening in!" Hahaha! And she did, too - listen in, I mean.

Party lines did come in handy now and then. Your other parties were usually neighbors, and sometimes you would pick up the phone, find a conversation in progress, but you would recognize at least one of the voices, and you could join right in. A three-party call was not unusual in those days. Ah, memories..... --Romeena