July 10, 2009 - Msg 73853: Morning all. Happy Friday. Hope you all have a good Friday and a good weekend.

Asa

July 10, 2009 - Msg 73854: Good morning everyone. No baby yet. The due date was Wednesday, and the sonogram date is tomorrow. If it doesn't come by Monday, the Mrs. has a doctor appointment and will schedule an inducement. Thanks for all your prayers.

Nice un-July-like weather continues here today.

Thanks, HAZEL. Means a lot.

BOO: Have you checked Facebook lately?

Have a great day.

Me-They
July 10, 2009 - Msg 73855: Hey Folks,

I hope all is going well with y'all. I've been keeping busy over on Facebook http://facebook.com/anewsome and Twitter http://www.twitter.com/AllanNewsome and realized that the Front Porch was the "original" version of those two type services. Folks gather to talk and visit with friends.

Don't forget to visit my podcast and give it a listen if you have a chance. I'm just a few weeks short of having a whole years worth of episodes done. Wow...
--Allan (a.k.a. Floyd)
Two Chairs No Waiting Mayberry Podcast
http://mayberry.com/podcasts/
July 10, 2009 - Msg 73856: any old tramps in here??
July 10, 2009 - Msg 73857: No Me-They, probably won't be back on facebook until Bruce finishes with my computer. FYI, the word is "induction". :-)...hope that baby comes on her own this weekend. I had sean without Pitocin and was given Pitocin with Erin and Sean was much easier, even though he was my first. With Erin my water broke but the contractions were not strong enough so they gave me the Pitocin to get things going. I was kind of stuck in the bed after and I didn't like that. I also remember being in pain (not severe, about a 5 on the pain scale) and one of Bruce's sisters was standing at the foot of my bed yacking on and on about someone i didn't even know and it took every bit of self control to not yell, "Who cares?!...just shut up, for heaven's sake!". Luckily my doctor came in and ran her off. She became the "bad guy" so I wouldn't have to.

Well, the headache is better but I just don't feel right. I have laundry to do but I don't really feel like going out in that heat and doing it.

Where is everyone?

Boo
July 10, 2009 - Msg 73858: Well, Erin just informed me that she is out of clean underwear, so I have to do laundry! Boo...anyone want to do it for me today?...Where's Possum?..

Boo
July 10, 2009 - Msg 73859: I knew that didn't sound right. The Mrs. had Pitocin with our first and says she better never have to have it again.

When you finally get your computer, I sent you something.

M-T
July 10, 2009 - Msg 73860: Ok, I will be looking for it.

Boo
July 10, 2009 - Msg 73861: I almost hate to bring him up again, but....I saw something interesting on the history channel today about Washington and his involvement with the Masons. Interesting and intriguing, for sure. I won't ask anyone to comment, just telling you so that if you ever see that it is coming on, you can watch it.

Boo
July 10, 2009 - Msg 73862: MDC, what do you think about the Masons? Is it true that Catholics aren't allowed to be Masons?...just curious about your take on things. My dad is a Mason but he would never reveal any of the "secrets", even under the influence of alcohol! ;-) He said he took an oath that he wouldn never break. Lot of mystery always surrounded it. Even the Masonic lodge in town has no windows...can't peek in to see the secret services, and believe me, if we could have my friends and I would have.

Boo
July 10, 2009 - Msg 73863: BOO: My grandfather was a Mason as well. I have his book, which was his father's, at home. Today, you can find out about most, but not all, of their secrets online pretty easily. About your question, for a quick answer look up "Catholicism and Freemasonry" on Wikipedia.

M-T
July 10, 2009 - Msg 73864: BOO: Actually, if you look up "Freemasonry" you will see my confusion over Washington when you read about their 18th/19th century political/societal ideology. Washington was a third degree (master) Mason.

M-T
July 10, 2009 - Msg 73865: I'm sorry, that's "Christianity and Freemasonry."

M-T
July 10, 2009 - Msg 73866: Thanks for that info, M-T. My dad is a third degree mason and so is one of my uncles. Dad, as I have said, is not a Christian and my uncle most definitely is (Methodist). I have a huge Masonic bible that was given to my Dad and I remember it was always under the Christmas tree, open to the Christmas story every year of my childhood. I used to be fascinated by the paintings of bible storied in the middle of the bible.

Boo
July 10, 2009 - Msg 73867: My grandfather also was a real Christian man. A wonderful example to me in all areas of his life. Sadly, he passed away when I was 18.

M-T
July 10, 2009 - Msg 73868:
Boo- I better keep my big fat mouth shut on that
one. That way I also don't have to pull my big fat foot out of it. Ha I get the feeling that I am too opinionated here sometimes, so I'll lay low for a while.
BTW, Kurt Warner and his wife just came out with a book, and he was signing copies here this week.
It's called "First Things First."
"She buttered him up and he egged her on." haha
I am the eggman coo koo coo choo.
OK, I'm a little crazy because I will be on vacation next week and i am getting excited like a little kid! I'll be here Monday tho, then off after that.
Prayers for all!
MDC

July 10, 2009 - Msg 73869: BOO: Here's a review of a book on Washington that you might like to read: http://www.christianitytoday.com/ct/2006/aprilweb-only/114-22.0.html.

Have a nice vacation, MDC.

M-T
July 10, 2009 - Msg 73870:
Oh HAzel, while watching the Loaded Goat last week,
I noticed a little trivia blooper. When Otis
unlocks the door and goes into the courthouse,
the keyhole on the outside does not match up
with the "turnkey" on the inside. They are off
by about 6 inches. Of course, the outside was
really outside in the backlot, but the inside of the door was
in desilu studios, and I guess the prop man messed up! ha Look next time you watch that ep.
MDC
July 10, 2009 - Msg 73871:
M-T Thanks for posting that link. I found the review very interesting. However, I think it leads us back to square one, which is what the writer of the review intended. Also, personally, I am very much the Christian, in the way, the writer of the review describes Washington. I don't think I can be any other way. I also don't enjoy communion. I hope that doesn't start a moulage but I don't. My wife loves communion. I doubt if ya have ever noticed but I usually keep out of the Christian based moulages. I don't think any of us know what is truly in another's heart. My FIL on the surface he was an awful man but I know he believed in Jesus. I think he may be in heaven (probably driven some relatives crazy). On the other hand I have seen men cry in church when all are watching and then act just horribly in private circumstances. Those guys I'm not so sure about. I have no idea if any of this makes sense but that has never stopped me from hitting the "post your comments" button, so here goes.

auh2o
July 10, 2009 - Msg 73872: Good evening, porch. Just got up after about three hours sleep, after working last night. A rear window in my car had to be repaired after the lift mechanism broke last night, so I did that as soon as I got off work this morning. No charge to me, ha ha. Ya gotta love Sewell Village Cadillac.

Me-They, ditto on what Hazel said about you and your posts. And I might add, it takes one to know one. Hazel leaves the same impression you do - fairness and an open mind, able to consider many sides of an issue without feeling the need for all to agree. Tomato, tomahto, I guess. Anyway, both of you are appreciated. Hazel, prayers for your mom's situation, whatever it may be, and may you be granted strength and wisdom as you provide the support she needs.

On the Freemasonry question, I'll just relate a little story, and nothing more. Many years ago, my parents and my dad's sister and her husband accompanied our family on a car trip out through the western states. We had a wonderful time. However, somewhere in one of the deserts, our car broke down - a broken fan belt, I think. We were stranded, about fifty miles from the nearest help. My dad stood beside the car and tried to flag down other drivers, to see if someone would at least agree to send help back to us. It was miserably hot, and our little jar of water was running low. No one would stop. Finally, my uncle, who was a Mason, got out and started trying to wave cars down. Two passed us, but the third one screeched to a stop, gave us a few bottles of soda from his cooler, and agreed to send a mechanic back from the first station he came to. And he did. Anyway, my dad commented on how quickly my uncle got someone to stop, when he couldn't. My uncle said "that's because you're not a brother and you don't know the secret sign. The man who stopped was a brother Mason." My dad mulled that over for a moment, then said he guessed he had to wonder about folks who would only stop to help a family in need if they knew they were "brothers". Otherwise, they would have just let us sit and suffer in the heat. My uncle couldn't answer that one, because he knew my dad often stopped and helped people, total strangers, and didn't need a "secret sign" to make him do it.

Now I know there can be many twists to this, and who says that most Masons wouldn't stop to help anyone who needed them. Also, we were passed by many drivers, who may or may not have been Masons, Christians, or toad worshipers, for all we knew. This is just what happened to us one day on a miserably hot afternoon in the desert.

Well, I'm off. Got to pick up Eloise and head for our monthly bunco party. Good food, good clean fun with good friends. Can't beat a deal like that! --Romeena
July 10, 2009 - Msg 73873:
Hmmm...seems like the parable of the good Samaratin could in fit there somehow...
MDC
July 10, 2009 - Msg 73874: Evening Porch. Hope you are all well.

Hazel, I'm sorry. I missed where you said your Mom was in the hospital. You guys have my prayers indeed.

MDC, Where in S. California you going? Seems like you have folks in Santa Barbara? If so holler at my family when you go through Ventura. Just 30 miles south of S.B. on the 101/ Highway 1/ Ventura Freeway. If you have never done it before, and time is on your side, might I suggest you take a tour of the Reagan Library there in Simi Valley. Very much worth the time to go see. At least I think so.
Well gang, I'm feeling pretty bad. I feel like I've hurt the feelings of a friend, and probably other friends here. I wish I'd just kept my mouth shut. I fear I have folks walking on egg shells here and I just feel terrible.
Please everyone go back to being yourselves. OK? I truly wish you all would. My last desire was to create contention here. And I just feel it with so many of the posts the last day or so. I feel like I'm the root of that tension,and just hate it. So I'm gonna lay low for a while with the hope that things will get back to normal, and maybe those of you I have offended will find it in your hearts to forgive me. If not, I understand.

Peace friends.

Asa
July 10, 2009 - Msg 73875: Oh my, Asa. You didn't offend me and I was never upset with you. I was just concerned about Me-They. You are a dear heart and we love you! There is nothing I wouldn't forgive you for, even if you had offended me. So you said something you regret?..we are all in that big boat.:-)

Well, I made a big mistake and decided to listen to some radio news programs today and I am so concerned about what is happening in this nation. I heard that in the poles, Obama is bottoming out. I think alot of people are freaking out about the changes that are being made and the whole health care thing is very scary. In a speech yesterday, they said that Obama said, "You will all be ALLOWED to choose your own doctor"...ALLOWED?! Is this still a free country? What does he meant I will be allowed to keep my doctor? So the government is going to allow this poor peasant citizen to keep her own doctor...how can I thank them? It burns me up! This country is on a greased slide to nowhere.

Alright, now you all see why I don't watch the news. Seriously, though, maybe i have been naive in the past but this is the first time I have ever really feared for the future of my children. I have to keep reminding myself that first and foremost, I am a citizen of The Kingdom of God and this this present world is passing away, "..but he that does the will of the Lord abides forever."

Boo


July 11, 2009 - Msg 73876: Mornin' Y'all! I've been babysitting Laci the past couple of days,so haven't had a chance to read posts of last 2 days. I take it there is no Me-They baby news yet- skimmed posts but didn't see any big announcement.I'll catch up with everything tomorrow,hopefully.
Prayers and love to all!
*******************
possum under a rock
July 11, 2009 - Msg 73877: Good Morning Porch! Got our annual family rebellion today, I can't wait, my aunt tells me that she had at least 40 RSVP's with more coming that aren't going to be eating (she's having BBQ brought in this year). One of the uncles that is in has never been to one here on the east coast before, so I'm looking forward to just sitting back and watching him interact with everyone. He's such a cut-up he will keep you in stitches the whole time you are around him. He's 72 years ol, about 5'8" and might be 120 pounds soaking wet, but he has a sense of humor as big as a barn. I just love him. Anyway, I'll be back later tonight. Ya'll have a good Mayberry kinda day!
*Mavis
July 11, 2009 - Msg 73878: make that 72 years old, missed a letter there. :)
*Mavis
July 11, 2009 - Msg 73879: I wondered where you were, Possum. No big announcement yet.

Hey Mavis, hope you enjoy the reunion as much i enjoyed ours recently. Its great to get together with distant kin.

Well, I have settled down a little bit this morning. Things always seem a bit brighter in the morning. I do feel like I need to make some changes, though. For one, take better care of myself and my family to try to prevent illness in the future (more natural diet, etc). I also need to be read and learn more about politics/politicians so that I can vote (and not in ignorance). I am going to do some organic gardening when I move and I have been reading up on that for a long time and just learn more about how to "do without" all the conveniences we are used to. I need to toughen up and so do my kids! Tougher times are coming, I think. One thing someone mentioned not long ago is how we need to be diligent in teaching our children about our faith and how to defend that faith because chances are, they will have to do that in the future. With Islam growing at such a terrific rate, there is almost certainty of future persecution of other faiths. We also need be sharing our faith with others while we are free to do so. Just thinking is all...

Boo
July 11, 2009 - Msg 73880: Good Saturday porch, just stopping by for a minute to get some tranquility. 2 of my brothers in law are visiting for they day and I needed to escape. Now, don't get me wrong, they are nice people, but very talky and loud. Neither one is married now (ages 52 and 54) and tend to sit in the kitchen where I usually am and either watch me cook or wash dishes. My dear husband enjoys their visits but by the end of the day I am worn out!

Ya'll can come to supper and give me some support.
Menu will be: meatloaf, mashed potatoes, green beans, corn, rolls and sliced tomatoes,vanilla cake with chocolate icing. tea, lemonade to drink.

Prayers and blessings to all. Keep us posted M-T, we are anxiously awaiting the newest first tenor to your family.

Big Maude

July 11, 2009 - Msg 73881: I'll be there, Maude. I know how to handle those loud talkers.

Boo
July 11, 2009 - Msg 73882: Now let me get this straight, Maude. You have two brothers-in-law, sitting in the kitchen, watching you cook and wash dishes? Here's an alternative scenario. Suppose you cook while THEY wash dishes?? Oh yes, it can happen. Here's your script: "Are you boys as hungry as I am? I'm starved, and it's going to take me a little while to cook dinner. Here's my problem. I just can't work in a messy kitchen, and I can't sit down to eat with dirty pots in the sink, so I always clean up as I go. So, to speed things along, how about you boys wash dishes while I cook. Joe, you wash, and Bob, you can dry. Just sit the clean things on the table, I'll put them away. Thanks, we'll eat much sooner this way." Or, you can just say, "How about getting off your dead ends and wash the dishes while I cook?" That works, too.

Gotta put on the old monkey suit and head for work tonight. Oy! Guess I won't make it to church in the morning, and I just hate that. I'm glad God understands, and I believe that He does.

Any news yet, Me-They?

Be blessed, friends. --Romeena
July 11, 2009 - Msg 73883: Asa, don't you dare lay low for awhile! Your thoughts and opinions are very much valued here, and everyone is entitled to post what is on their mind... we all do it, and you were just stating your "take on things", and that's fine. Now, don't make me drive down to Utah and make you post again. Shoot, the drive takes about 6 hours, and since I like to give the machine a 30 minute rest every hour, that'll take me all day! And I just don't have the time.

Maude, that's one thing I really dislike, having people watch me while I bustle around cooking dinner and cleaning. That's when I would give my husband "the look". Which he would know means: Entertain these people and get them out of here!

Thanks for the well-wishes for my mom. She is doing better, thanks. She just lost her sister, my Aunt Norma, a couple months ago, due to cancer. That makes my mom the only one left out of her brothers and sisters. She seemed to take it well at the time, but I know it's been depressing for her. And she's got her own health issues, bless her heart.

Well, see you later,
- Hazel

"Hey Mister! You're all tied up to a tree!"


July 12, 2009 - Msg 73884: Good Sabbath morning porch, hope everyone has had a good weekend. Mine was nice and quiet so far. We've got a visiting preacher coming this morning, and are having dinner afterwards. He's not written a book or anything, but I'm looking forward to hearing him anyways. So I fixed two Snicker Bar Cheesecakes to take. And it's been a battle keeping the hubby out of them! Asa, I cant imagine you offending anyone and I've known you for several years now hopefully you wont lay low too long. I best get ready for preaching, sitting here drinking coffee isn't getting it done. Ya'll have a blessed Sunday.--Salty Dog
July 12, 2009 - Msg 73885: Morning Folks:
Just stopping by for a time while dinner is finishing up. M-T, praying for that youn'un on the way. Prayers for your wife, safe delivery and quick too!!
Beautiful weather on this side of the porch. Busy, but loving it!
I love you Asa. Courtney is now a Maryland EMT heading for her paramedic license to be a flight medic! That girl just doesn't stay still for one minute! She wanted you to know...
Blessing on this day.~ New Neighbor
July 12, 2009 - Msg 73886: We had a visiting preacher too, Salty. Dr. Somebody-Or-Other...can't quite remember the name but boy, was he a good preacher. I loved his message. In a nutshell he talked about "dancing the dance of life" and the choices we make. Jesus invites us to lay aside the things that are holding us and dance the dance of life with Him. It was very convicting, but very touching. Good stuff. I sat there at the end of that sermon and I thought I would start bawling like a baby. I think I only sprang a leak, but it was hard to hold back the dam (I'm sure you all know what I'm talking about).

Bruce is sick with a cold and at the last minute I had to prepare and fill in for him as a teacher in sunday school...."teacher" i was not, more like fascilitator (did I spell that right?). Luckily there are several bible scholars and even a visiting sunday school teacher from another church, who were able to take the ball and run with the discussion. They had a great way of knowing where scriptures were that dealt with the topic at hand, which was "Walking in the Spirit" (which Paul talks about in Galatians). Anyway, it's all good and everything worked out.

Well, I have already had my little sunday nap (interrupted by kids three times). I am keeping Gizzy this week and he was curled up next to my leg, sharing my blanket. At home, Gizzy sleeps with my MIL, under the blanket next to her leg every night, and so does the new kitten (and in a twin bed). Must get a little cramped at times but it sure is warm.

Better scoot and spend some time with the family!...Uh, my other family, that is.

Boo
July 12, 2009 - Msg 73887: Afternoon gang back home at the dog house safe and sound from the lake....got to be at work at 6pm will read then....SPOT
July 12, 2009 - Msg 73888: Yeah!! TVL is finally playing some TAGS again it's about time. Good way to spend a Sunday evening-Salty Dog
July 12, 2009 - Msg 73889: Wow busy here at work...storms are moving thru!...got to get some more crews in.....SPOT
July 12, 2009 - Msg 73890: Good luck with those storms, SPOT!

Boo
July 12, 2009 - Msg 73891: Asa please check in, I just heard about some bad mud slides with folks missing and such out in your area!
*Mavis
July 12, 2009 - Msg 73892: Slow here on the porch this weekend, but maybe that's how Sunday should be. "What's your hurry"?, and all.

I decided to visit a local church that has bible study on Sunday nights (our church has on service on Sunday nights) and I really enjoyed it. It was kind of the old-timey sort of church and they sang a couple of songs from the hymnal and the elderly preacher expounded on the bible, teaching on the priesthood of believers. Really interesting, and right on. Sometimes I just love being with the older folks. We only have a few that would qualify as seniors in our church and they aren't really involved. I remember when i was 19 and started going to the Assembly of God church and there was an elderly woman there that everyone called "Granny". She was 100 years old when she went to be with the Lord. She was a beautiful picture of what the Lord can do in the heart of a Christian over time. She was such a loving and sweet woman and I liked to sit next to her in church because her old, soft hand would hold onto mine as we sat there. She was beautiful and I am looking forward to seeing her again in our Father's house. I guess I said all of that to say that I see a trend in todays church that excludes the elderly and that is very unfortunate. What a privledge it is to be loved and guided by someone who has know Jesus for years and years. I miss Granny.

Well, guess that is my thoughts for the evening. Better herd Erin into the shower..she is one smelly critter.

Boo
July 12, 2009 - Msg 73893: "no" service on sunday nights, that is...sorry

Boo
July 13, 2009 - Msg 73894: Well good morning. Looks like I am the first one up. Just having my morning coffee. Slept well except for the one time Sean opened the door to tell me that Gizzy had diarrhea on the kitchen floor. Gizzy started pooping this tar-like substance all over my house yesterday...the kitchen, the bathroom, Sean's bedroom, my bathroom....I had to throw away three rugs, no kidding. You can just imagine how happy this is making me and BRUCE, especially. ha. You can tell the poor dog knows he has been doing something he shouldn't and has been cowering around with his ears back. Poor thing can't help it. Maybe it will subside today. MIL won't be back in town to get him until tomorrow!

Well, guess what? I finally got the laundry caught up this weekend. Yeah! Now if I throw in the dirty clothes from yesterday i will have it "done and done", as Charlene would say. I am really going to try to keep on top of it this time.

Sure have been lots of folks missing from the porch recently. Hope some folks check in soon. I heard from Lucy on facebook and saw some pictures of the kids. That Bryson is one cute kid.

Well, time to move on. I need to call St. Susan. She is in the waiting room at the hospital, waiting for her hubby to have a routine colonoscopy..hehehe...couldn't happen to a nicer guy. ;-)

Boo
July 13, 2009 - Msg 73895: Morning porch, hope everyone is doing okay today.
Just getting my work week started, kinda tired but hopefully I will get a big burst of energy that will keep me going today.

Breakfast menu will be: banana nut or just regular pancakes, maple syrup, bacon, sausage, eggs. coffee, tea, juice to drink.

A cool morning with some rain around the area. Supposed to clear this afternoon with temps in the low 80's.

Prayers and blessings to all.

Big Maude
July 13, 2009 - Msg 73896: Didn't Me-They tell us that they would induce his wife today if she had not had the baby? Prayers for a safe delivery and healthy mom and baby. Hope he is able to check in soon.

Good morning Maude. Thanks for breakfast. Your weather sounds great...supposed to be near 100 here today.

Boo
July 13, 2009 - Msg 73897: Mornin' Y'all! Boo,sounds like you've had a real time of it lately!
Hey to Big Maude! I saw ya dancing with Al (Barney) up at O'Malley's cabin yesterday. Perhaps that's why you're so tired! Ha!
Yes,I am also waiting on baby news from Me-They.I think he said his wife goes back to dr. today & will be induced.Prayers for them all.
Oh Hazel,I hope you mom is doing better.
Y'all have a good day-love to all1
*******************
possum under a rock
July 13, 2009 - Msg 73898: Oops, not all1.. meant that to be an exclamation mark!

possum again
July 13, 2009 - Msg 73899: Go ahead and take a shot at him sheriff. You got a legal right. (Haven't posted for a while. 3 years)
--Old Man Rimshaw
July 13, 2009 - Msg 73900: Hey Y'all!
Sorry I've been AWOL for a bit. Lots of stuff been going on around here. I've travelled to Ky, St Simons Island, and Ohio. Plus I have the kiddos at home. I'm trying to keep my computer time down. If you are on Facebook email me at brysonwg@aol.com (or you can just email me if ya want) for I am on there more since I can do updates and such on my phone. My husband and I have had some serious issues in the last month as well and I'm really working on getting those back on track.

Well, I hope all are well! Y'all take care and I'll do my best to check in more often.

Blessings to you and yours,
~Lucy
July 13, 2009 - Msg 73901:
Boo- did bruce try a shot of oregano for his cold. it will
nip it in the bud.
Yes, the BO plan is darn right scary! Remember the actress who died in canadian "care" recently? Well,welcome to the US.
Possum- yup, we are all on "babywatch' and prayer with MT.
Hope he checks in.
ASA- you're OK in my book. Don't make me join Hazel in that car of hers. Of course, she never
drives it over 25, just like her late husband B-e-r-n-a-r-d,
so it may take us a few weeks. (:
Oh, and i am flying to SB, so I'll yell hey from the air.
The past three days here have been dang HOT!
115 Friday, Sat and Sunday and today! We were
told to check on our elderly etc, lots of bottled water out for the homeless etc.
I may check in once more but then I am off and AFK
until the 21st.
Prayers,
MDC
July 13, 2009 - Msg 73902:
Oh, hey to Lucy!
July 13, 2009 - Msg 73903: Good afternoon, porch. Lucy, it's good to see you, hope things will settle down for you soon. I'm concerned about those "issues" you mentioned, but know you're involving the Lord in the process. Stay strong!

Old Man Rimshaw, we're glad to see you stopping by, and hope you'll stay a while this time.

I worked Saturday night, so didn't subject my church family to my exhausted self, as I know I couldn't have stayed awake. I just came home, fell in the bed and entered a coma for about eight hours. I was soooo tired!! Got up for a few hours, ate a little, went back to bed and slept all night last night. Guess I really was that tired. Today I'm back to normal.

It's 102 here right now, at 2:43 p.m., so will probably hit 104 before evening. That's dang hot! I spent twenty minutes out there at mid-morning, working around the pond, and when I came in, it took me nearly two hours to quit sweating. Just miserable.

I'm going to look into putting a small solar panel on my roof, not to try to power the house with it, but just to help a little. My most recent electric bill was $370! The next one will probably be worse. I can't handle too much of that, gotta do something. That's with the thermostat on 78, too, which is a bit warm for me. I'm afraid to set it any lower, though.

Well, I'm off. Hope we hear from Me-They soon, with good news that all is well. Be blessed, porch family. --Romeena
July 13, 2009 - Msg 73904:
Hey Folks

It's 68 degrees here today, honestly, and sunny... make that very sunny with a nice breeze. Very nice. Sorry folks. I'm just hoping to start a weather moulage. hehe

Prayers for the Me-They's.

Lucy-Praying for you and the hubby. Good to hear from ya.

Asa-Darn it all. You better get a post on here real quick. If anyone is to blame for some of this stuff we all know it's me-th... I mean me. Seriously, I think on the common denominator in nearly of the the cantankerous moulages. So, get a rocking buddy!

auh2o
July 13, 2009 - Msg 73905: 115, MDC?!! Hard to believe...poor homeless people!

Auh2o, you are testing me now?...68 degrees?...how can you flaunt such a thing at a time like this?

That is a tough electric bill, Romeena. Wonder how long it will take the solar panel to pay for itself? Kinda wish we could do that but Bruce doesn't want to. He says he is making the house energy efficient enough (if that's possible). They are supposed to spray some sort of foam in the walls and ceilings...kind of like living inside an ice chest or something. I was suprised when I drove by the place and the plumbing was already sticking out of the foundation. That builder, Mike, said he doesn't mess around and I think he's right. It is happening fast, which is good during hurricane season. Mercy! Hope this isn't the year that we have "The Big One" we have been waiting for. We are just a short distance from the water, yikes.

Well, I made a meatloaf, some fried potatoes (a rare treat), some corn on the cob, green beans, and some leftover baked beans. Ya'll come on, there is plenty for everyone.

Boo
July 13, 2009 - Msg 73906:
Boo- Yup, I just checked at 5:14 pm today it has climbed to 69 degrees! It's a throw down...Weather MOULAGE!! Hey, if Bobby Flay can do, why can't I?

auh2o
July 13, 2009 - Msg 73907:
I noticed that all the Billy Mays commercials were off
the air for about two weeks, then yesterday i saw one again and for about the last 5 seconds they
showed his picture with "In Memory of.." so that
was nice to see.
Well, I'm about as excited as a horse at the starting gate. I'll try to make it back before
i leave work tho.
AUH20- you dog! ha
I'm glad I'll be in cool Santa Barbara this week,
as our forecasts here are for more of the same!
Yikes! Check the weather channel if you don't
believe me, I double-dog-dare ya! ha
Boo- glad things are moving along. your RC must be
from the extreme home makeover crew! haha
God bless,
MDC
July 13, 2009 - Msg 73908: Here's a penny that's been run over by a train-it'll protect you in your travels,MDC. Enjoy your vacation-we'll miss you! Santa Barbara,you say? You're not by any chance going to Neverland are ya? Ha!
Welcome back to the Porch,Lucy.Good to hear from you!
Guess we're having a cool spell here in SC compared to Arizona & Texas. High temps have been in the upper 80's here lately. So far auh2o gets the prize for coolest temps.Who,besides me is jealous?! 69 degrees? Wow whee!
Boo,that supper sounds good.Maybe I'll crank up the possum mobile and head over.
Still on babywatch,huh? While we're waiting,anyone want to guess the baby's weight and length? Whoever comes closest gets to show their feet to Me-They! Or,feed him a mayo sammich-whichever he'd prefer.Hee Hee
I'll guess baby Me-They will weigh in at 7lbs,14 oz. and be 20 inches long.
Y'all start guessing & I'll keep track.We'll see who comes closest.
Have a good evening,everybody!
*******************
possum under a rock
July 13, 2009 - Msg 73909:
7 lbs., 12 oz, 21 inches.
Nope, not Never, never, never-land! (:
OK, this is it, I'll catch ya on the flip-flop,
now don't go and shove my chair under the
porch with the spiders...ha
Prayers for all will continue...
Later,
MDC
July 13, 2009 - Msg 73910: Er, 6 lbs, 14 oz would be my guess. 20 inches.

MDC, my niece lives in Santa Barbara. Loves it, just loves it.

Our weather here was great today also. (Not as good as auh2o's, but pretty darn comfortable.) 80's all day. Slight cool breeze. Nice. Supposed to get up to 100 by Thursday. Ro, I have to show my ignorance. (surprise) In Idaho, people get solar panels so in the winter they can help to warm their houses. So, in Texas, people get them in the summer to... cool things down? I just don't understand how they work I guess. I thought they used the sun to help with heating, I didn't know they helped keep things cooler in the summer. Kindly 'splain it to me.

Boo, you're from Corpus Christi, right? My husband has a dear friend who's son is down there right now, in one of the hospitals. He's from Boise, but went down to visit his brother who lives there. While there, he developed acute pain or something (I don't know all the details) and they took him to the ER, where they did tests and said he had liver cancer. He's only about 26 years old. Anyway, it's been frustrating for my husbands friend, because she can't get any information (she has a different last name than the son), and the hospital won't tell her anything. The brother that lives there also has a different last name, and he also has had difficulty. The update about an hour ago was that it may be blood clots instead. She is very frustrated because he is still in intensive care, and she hasn't been able to talk to him, and really doesn't even know what is even wrong with him. I understand the privacy act, but I also see how sometimes it goes a little far! She's not sure if she should get a flight down there, or if they'll be releasing him soon. I feel sorry for her.

Well, 10-4, over and out. Oh, thanks for checking in Lucy.

- Hazel
July 13, 2009 - Msg 73911: Good evening, porch. Possum, that's amazing! That's just exactly what I was going to say, 7 lb, 14 oz, 20 inches. Isn't that amazing?

Hazel, I'm not sure how the solar panels for heating work, but around here they are used to generate electricity, which is fed into the house as usable power, thereby cutting the usage of power from the grid. In the rare event that they generate more power than the house uses, the system is designed to feed the power back through the meter, causing it to run backward, which of course lowers the bill. Really, I'm not kidding, it really does make the meter run backward. I don't know how it does all that, but it does. It would be very unusual for a private home to have enough solar panels to produce enough power to do that, but a panel or two will provide enough power to reduce your bill to a significant degree.

Boo, at this point, I would "back my ears" as my husband used to accuse me of doing, and make a very strong case for installing at least a panel or two. Even one would help a little, and it would have the basic installation in place. Other panels can be linked in pretty cheaply later on. The installation is far simpler and less costly in the construction stage than it would be later, like I'm thinking of doing. It will cost me more than it would you right now. I'm convinced that in the next few years, we're all going to be either installing solar panels, or sweating a lot. Think about it, please.

Hazel, regarding the family you mentioned, with the son in the hospital - if she can enlist the help of someone at the hospital - I'd start with the chaplain - there is something that can be done. What needs to happen, if the patient is conscious, is for someone to ask him if he wants to authorize the transfer of information about him to his family, and get him to name them. Once that list is established, the staff can give them information. Without it, they can't. Some hospitals even go so far as to establish a code word. The patient could give them the word, with an explanation about it, such as his pet's name, or his mother's maiden name, and the staff could then ask callers for that word. "What is your son's dog's name?" for example. Most places don't go that far, they'll accept the word of the person on the phone that they are the named person, but some do - just be aware of that.

Liver cancer at his age would be unusual, but not impossible. Blood clots are a real possibility, and on scans would look like tumors. In my own case, a lesion was found in my liver during a CT of my chest when I was admitted with pleurisy a few years ago. I underwent an exploratory laparoscopy to let them visualize the lesion. It was found to be a hemangioma, just a tangle of blood vessels, and had probably been there forever. Nothing to be done about it, and it doesn't bother me. However, those things are usually a bit fragile, and if the young man has one, and it started to leak, he would have blood clots and probably a lot of pain. A big leak could easily be fatal. Please keep us informed, I'm very interested in what's happening there.

Well, guess I'll go cuddle little Starr for a while. She has been in here asking for attention every few minutes. She's so spoiled, and I just love it. Be blessed, all. --Romeena
July 13, 2009 - Msg 73912: Hello everyone.

I see Floyd is advertising his Facebook and Twitter sites. So far, I can't find a need for either service. The forums I participate in are sufficient for my needs.

The postings about Masonry tweeked my curiosity. I did some internet searching and read some interesting claims from both sides of the issue. I'm surprised to learn that supposedly 34% of our former Presidents of the United States, 27% of the signers of the Declaration of Independence and 70% of the signers of the Constitution were known Masons.

I see some of you posting the high temperatures you are currently experiencing. Funny, but back in May, I remember people complaining how cold our spring was.

Finally, I recently watched a Joel Osteen sermon on television. I'm curious to learn about your opinions about his ministry.

from Poor Horatio
July 13, 2009 - Msg 73913: Regarding solar heating, if you decide to instal a major project for the whole house, it can be very expensive and might take up to ten years to break even. Start out small with enough panels just to power your water heater. You can always expand it later.

from Poor Horatio
July 14, 2009 - Msg 73914: Good to see you, PH!

Hazel, I feel for your friend. If there is anything I can do on this end, please let me know. Do you have my email address? If not, you can get it from Ro. If he is in the ICU, I probably couldn't get to him or get any info, but if they transfer him to a regular room, I could go see him. Please let me know if I can help in any way. Is there anything else you can think of that I could do, Romeena? He is probably in one of the Christus Spohn hospitals and they have strict rules, even have to use a code to get information on any patient.

Boo


July 14, 2009 - Msg 73915: Morning, I forgot to put in my guess for baby: I say 8lbs-3oz and 21 inches. Hope we hear something soon...I am looking forward to hearing what name was decided upon, too.

Well, another hot day, but the wonderful thing is that seasons change and soon chane will come, even to those of us here in the armpit of Texas...well, maybe not the armpit...I think the armpit would be Pecos, Texas. Anyone ever been there?? Oh, it's a whole new experience in heat, dirt, and flies. I got stuck there a few years ago on my way to New Mexico..you all might remember it. My suburban coasted into the walmart parking lot in Pecos in the middle of the day and it was about 110, I think. Walking next door to the auto parts store was like that scene from the vacation movie when Clark is walking through the dessert and stumbles upon the skeleton of a lost tourist....he starts off with all his clothes on, then he ends ups with his pants on his head. Anyway, it was so hot that it felt like I was wandering through the parking lot in slow motion and would have to put my pants on my head at any moment (or shorts in my case). Bottom line: if you ever feel the urge to visit Pecos, Texas...don't. Oh, and never under any circumstances stay at the Motel 6 (the ONLY motel in Pecos)! Me-They would die a thousand deaths in that place. You know, come to think of it. The picture on the front of my sub-album is of the kids in that motel...I still can't believe I allowed them to lay on that bedspread, but I think the extreme heat had affected my senses at that point.

Well, the coffee is finished so I will move along. Today should be a brighter day...the chihuahua no longer has diarrhea!! :-)

Boo
July 14, 2009 - Msg 73916: Who is "Chane" and when will he come??

Boo
July 14, 2009 - Msg 73917:
Hey Folks

Romeena & possum- 7 lb, 14 oz, 20 inches and a southpaw but I'm sure M-T would say ambidextrous. hehe Oh stop it! Me-They would think it's funny.

Poor Horatio- I don't know too much about Joel Osteen. Now if M-T was here he would say my lack of knowledge usually doesn't preclude from commenting. The only thing I do know about Joel Osteen is that he smiles a lot.

Asa-I mean it...

oh yeah, it's sunny 43 degrees here now. However, the high today is suppose to be about 72. I love these summer temps but my girls want to go swimming.

auh2o
July 14, 2009 - Msg 73918: PH, I don't feel like I can really comment concerning Joel Osteen, since I don't listen to him. I will just tell you this story, take it as you will, positive or negative. I have shared this before I think, so forgive me if I am repeating. When I travel to Houston to see Sean's doctors, we always pass right by Osteen's church/convention center and once when I had my dad with me, who is not a Christian and has no intention of being one. As we passed he said, "There's that guy Osteen's church. I watch him sometimes because he doesn't talk about 'Jesus is coming' and all that STUFF (my word, his was much worse)". Not sure what to think about that. What do you think of him, PH?

Wow, Auh2o, you are blessed with those temps!

Boo
July 14, 2009 - Msg 73919: Mornin' Y'all! Ok,I have everyone's guesses for the baby and all I've got to say is that if Ro,auh2o and myself are correct with the 7 lbs,14 oz.,20 inches long guess,then boy, oh boy are we gonna have fun! Remember what I said the prize would be? Yes,all 3 of us get to show our feet to Me-They,or feed him 3 mayo sammiches! Ha! Poor Me-They!
Hazel,prayers for the young man in the hospital. Wouldn't it be something if Boo were able to help in some way? Keep us posted.

About Joel Osteen.. well,I'm not going to get into religion here,but will say this. I have watched Joel since he took over Lakewood Church. I'd say I have followed him for almost 10 years now.My take on him is that he is more of a Life Coach,or spiritual advisor than anything. He talks a lot about expecting God's best-he is a great motivator. He doesn't preach "fire and brimstone". Bottom line- he works for me. And yes,he's known as the "Smiling Preacher!"Anyhow,I like what he has to say- sure benefits me.
Well,did anyone make breakfast? Where's that ol' talking dog?? Let's head over to Spot's for lunch!
*******************
possum under a rock
July 14, 2009 - Msg 73920: Morning,porch. PH, I don't listen to Osteen either, after hearing him a few times. God forgive me if I'm wrong, but something about him just doesn't seem right to me somehow. He says all the right things, I guess, but there's just a disconnect for me. He's too slick or something - too many teeth. Again, if I'm actually maligning a true servant of God, then I ask forgiveness. He does seem to draw the crowds, and has built a huge ministry. Superstar preachers like that scare me a little, though. When you get that high and mighty, it's a long way to fall. I'll take Billy Graham any day, and he never built a megachurch anywhere. He just preached the word of God, pure and simple, encouraged his converts to seek out a local church home, and went on his way.

Boo, I'm glad the chihuahua is over his diarrhea. You did mention "tarry" though - do you suppose he's bleeding inside somewhere? With dogs, you never know. Sugarplum had, and now Toye Starr has a fascination with staples. Starr will get my "Guideposts" magazine, and very neatly pull out the two staples that hold it together. I pick up the book and it falls apart, because both staples have been plucked out. Sugarplum would see me remove a staple from something and drop it in the wastebasket by my desk. As soon as I walked away, she'd turn the basket over and rummage until she found that tiny staple. Later I would see her chewing on something, and would find a staple in her mouth. I finally had to start putting them in the kitchen trash, which she couldn't get into. Now with Starr, when my magazine falls apart, I get the flashlight and search the carpets until I find the staples. So far, I think I've found them all. However, my point here is, dogs will play with the weirdest things, and some of them can do real damage. I can only imagine what a staple, or a pin or some such, would do to tiny innards.

Well, off I go. Errands to run - got a check to put in the bank. Yay! Be blessed, friends. --Romeena
July 14, 2009 - Msg 73921: Well hey gang..sorry just been cleaning the camper out...and guess what miss Sherry bought a brand new 36ft 5th wheel camper!..got to get the hitch put in my truck and we get the camper monday!..3 slide outs...we are heading west this fall..may get to see some of yall!...will get pics to Ro...hey possum,Boo,Maude,hazel.auh20 and all...well ltes celebrate and hit olive garden tonight!...possum and I will buy!...SPOT
July 14, 2009 - Msg 73922: Yes, Ro...it was a possibility (concerning Gizzy). Seems to be normal now and he hasn't slowed down any. I am going to tell my MIL to keep and eye on it and let me know if she sees it again.

Boo
July 14, 2009 - Msg 73923: Hey, Spot. Congrats to Miss Sherry on the new camper - sounds like some fun ahead. I guess this means you're not going on the Mayberry Cruise? (sniff!)

Boo, I'm glad Gizzy is better, and glad you're watching the situation. Regarding Sugarplum and the staples, I remember a day when she came to me looking all sheepish, and holding her mouth funny. I checked, and she had a staple jammed between two teeth and couldn't get it out! I removed it, and she hopped into her little cuddle bed and stayed there for about an hour, looking penitent. Mercy, I miss that little girl.

Well, it's 104 right now, at 4:04. Hot, hot, hot! My poor yard just looks awful, and it's too hot for me to get out there and do much about it. I'm tempted to try, but thank goodness, I've got better sense. I'd probably stroke out.

Well, time for another glass of tea and a little TV. Be blessed, folks. --Romeena