September 02, 2009 - Msg 74944: Asa - apple jack (not the cereal) is apple cider that has turned "hard" - in other words, it has become alcohol and it will tickle your innards and a few other places too! Sometimes, those squeezins in the jug were really hard apple cider. There is a recipe with raisins and etc that you can use to make it - I'll research it if you want but I don't really want! Ha Ha

It was 55 this morning but we are warming up to about 85 by tomorrow. Heat - just in time for the weekend!


Happy anniversary Boo! and Bruce!

hm
September 02, 2009 - Msg 74945: Looks like I swept with apple jack in hand! oooowwweeeehhhh!
hm
September 02, 2009 - Msg 74946: Good morning everyone. Weather is beautiful here, and all is well with the Me-They family. Hope it is with you all, too.

Happy anniversary, BOO!

Prayers for all who need them today, and each day. Take care.

Me-They
September 02, 2009 - Msg 74947: Yeah,it was the Kinks,Boo. I started to say that this morning,but wasn't awake enough to be absolutely sure. "Lola" WAS a strange tune,wasn't it?

I am fighting off allergies today,took some medicine and now I am (as Harry Chapin sang in "Taxi") "flying so high,when I'm stoned." LOL
Better come in for a landing and lie down awhile-see y'all later!
**********
possum again
September 02, 2009 - Msg 74948: Well Hello Porch!...got a new Modem here at home and got to get all these wires routed....will read when I get to work at 2.SPOT
September 02, 2009 - Msg 74949: Thanks for the anniversary wishes! :-)

Boy, it has been a busy day and I still feel like I am under a pile of laundry and dishes. Just put something in the crockpot for dinner so at least that is done. I would like to please ask for your prayers for my family. I mentioned Mom's pacemaker next week, and the spot on Dad's lung and now my sister called to tell me that she has to have an endometrial biopsy soon. She probably has something called Endometrial hyperplasia, which is a benign condition, but can lead to endometrial cancer sometimes. I am just a little worried for her, mostly because of the procedure itself, which is not pleasant and is done without the benefit of anesthesia (I will give her some Lortab before, though). I absolutely hate the thought of her going through anything because there is something very childlike about Susan and besides labor, she really hasn't had any major illnesses or pain. It hurts me to think of anything hurting her...kind of the way you would feel about one of your children going through something.

Well, better get back to the chores...Thanks!

Boo
September 02, 2009 - Msg 74950: Boo - are you doing M-Ts shorts again. Remember - he likes extra starch!

hm
September 02, 2009 - Msg 74951: Prayers for Susan,Boo.
((((( YOUT)))))... you're back on the Porch! Missed you,Spot!
Let's go to Morielli's tonight for supper- I heard that's where Boo & Bruce will be celebrating their anniversary. We'll get a big booth next to theirs and make kissy noises at them!
*************
possum u.a.r.
Andy: " Did you get a little Kissy?"
September 02, 2009 - Msg 74952:
Possum, are you now residing in the United Arab Republic? haha
BOO- prayers for St Susan for sure.
ASA- I knew you would do OK on the speech.Way to go!
I just hope it worked and that giving goes up!
APB for LUCY!
Any one hear that BO will be addressing school kids
next week thru the internet! What hath God Wrought? It may be just fine what he says, but i, for one, have my concerns about it.
HAPPY ANNIVERSARY BOO AND BRUCE! wAS IT YOU 2 i SAW IN THE JEWELRY STORE? HA
God bless,
MDC
Andy: Well that kiss was better than a mule's nose, yes.

September 02, 2009 - Msg 74953:
My sweet Juan-neat! aaah!
September 02, 2009 - Msg 74954: Possum lets hit Moriellis..im in there...Boo bring a paper.....busy here at work.....glad to be back with a new modem at the dog house...SPOT
September 02, 2009 - Msg 74955: Good news for my mom - she is legally blind (low vision due to macular degeneration) and we were able to acquire new magnifying lens glasses for her today. They are not prescription but she is able to see better with them than the doctor prescribed. Also got her a new hand magnifyer - the strongest on the market. Yay for my mom. She is 85 and still going strong. She had her pacemaker put in about 4 years ago with no problems.

talk to you all later

hm
September 02, 2009 - Msg 74956: Well, if ya'll are all coming to Morelli's I will just reserve their conference room and we can all sit together! After 15 years of marriage, we don't mind celebrating with friends!Thanks for all the well-wishes.

Thanks also for the prayers for St Susan. She got a letter today saying there is also blood in her stool, so she has to have a colonoscopy, too....poor thing!

Boo
September 02, 2009 - Msg 74957: Oh hey there HM. Very neat about your mother!

Boo
September 02, 2009 - Msg 74958: Ok gang im (I hope) back in full swing...got the new modem at home and here at work till 6 am gona read the archives in just a bit...hey HM,Boo,Possum hope ya feel better...Rev you on the road?..Romeena working nights?...well we booked the first week in December in downtown Pigeon Forge camping for The Christmas parade that week..WOW we sure were lucky to get booked...sight is on the Little Pigeon River..have never been up there during Christmas...we cant wait!...well any left overs?...I got a piece of strak and okra I will share...well let me get back to paperwork....SPOT
September 03, 2009 - Msg 74959: OK gang...Breakfast at 8:00 am ...2 eggs your way,bacon,grits,hashbrowns,bisquits and gravy,oj,milk,coffee....well back here to work at 2..prayers to all ..Rev will send you a plate!...SPOT
September 03, 2009 - Msg 74960: Mornin' Y'all. Hey Spot,glad you're back. The pigeon Forge trip sounds cool! Thanks for the get well wishes-I think it's just allergies with the weather changing. Laci is sick,had a high fever lst night,so I doubt she's coming to my rock later today.I was gonna keep her a few days,but she needs to stay home & get well for her birthday on Monday.She'll be 6-hard to believe!
MDC,I was puzzled by your "United Arab Republic" comment,until pondered over it for a moment- funny! Nope,I'm an American possum- 100% red,white, & blue!
Hm,your mom is an inspiration!
Still praying for Susan & your folks,Boo.
Well,I'd better go. Y'all have a good day!
*******************
possum under a rock

"Goober. It's an American name."
September 03, 2009 - Msg 74961: Oh, wanted to tell y'all that my Wyoming relatives have found a rental house. No more Silver Spur Motel- ha!
************
possum again
September 03, 2009 - Msg 74962: Thank you, Possum. So Laci is going to be six already?! Hope she is well soon.

So, your relatives found a place to hang their hats? I was hoping they would give up and come home...oh, well.

Well, yesterday was rather trying but today is a new day and "His mercies are new every morning". Wanted to give you the latest on my church saga. Well, "the woman" showed up at church last night to bring her kids to the kid's activities...she never stays for church on Wed night, herself. When she entered the building, Bruce (who wanted to try reconcilation one more time) approached her and asked (nicely) to speak to her. She said, "Uh..in a minute." and rushed off. Bruce waited a minute and then realized she had no intention of coming back so he left the building for the parking lot. Soon he saw her sneaking out the back door of the church to leave. He approached her nicely again (which I think was a mistake and he shouldn't have tried to talk to her alone when she wasn't willing) anyway, he told her it's been over three months of asking to please try to get together and reconcile our differences and that he felt that we have been more than patient in giving them time. She was very rude and said in a seething voice, "Who decides that? YOU?!". Bruce explained that she had given him no choice but to get the church leaders involved and she said in a very defiant manner, "Bruce, you do whatever you want. I don't care"...and got in her car and left. The pastor's wife was nearby and asked Bruce after, what had happened, so he sat down with her and told her about the conversation. She knows the woman well and told Bruce that the woman has no intention of ever changing or talking to anyone. She has been completely defiant of any churh authority and basically thumbed nose at the pastor and the church. She knows nothing of scripture concerning such behavior because she has no interest in scripture. She has no concern for the church body and does nothing to serve it anymore. She told her husband last Sunday that he needed to give her the boot. She is a very straightforward woman...she kind of reminds me of Romeena. No nonsense, just do the right thing. What is funny is that Bruce told her, "I feel bad that I kind of had to give (pastor) a kick in the seat to get him to do anything and she said, "Bruce, that's what he needs! Haha...she's so funny.

Well, now that you are up to speed, I had better get Erin to school. See ya later.

Boo
September 03, 2009 - Msg 74963: By the way, I want you all to know that I would not share any of this with anyone else because the less that people know in the church, the better. I tell you because it is safe to do so since you don't know the folks involved. I would never share what I have shared here with anyone else and stir up strife or hard feelings against the family involved.

Boo
September 03, 2009 - Msg 74964: On the run will holler from work.....Lunch possum?...SPOT
September 03, 2009 - Msg 74965: Good morning, porch. Starr and I slept very late, as I have to work tonight and won't be able to get a nap, due to a physical therapy appointment this afternoon. We're up now, though! Small paws are tapping on my leg, reminding me that I haven't made it as far as the kitchen yet, and someone is hungry!

Boo, that woman is a cancer in your church. She is there to sow discord and trouble, and the sooner she is asked to move on, the better. You are wise to avoid discussion among the congregation, but you can bet everyone knows. They may not know about your personal trouble with her, but they know her. No way has she just singled you out - you can be sure others have had encounters with her as well. Just watch - once she and her family are gone, stories will begin to emerge, and you'll all wonder why you tolerated her as long as you did. Some people are just poisonous, toxic personalities, and perhaps even without them being aware of it, the devil controls and directs them, using them to do as much harm to the body of Christ as he possibly can.

You have done the right thing - you have prayed about it, you have offered the "olive branch" to her and her family, and have tried to settle things peaceably. She will have none of it, and has left you and the church no choice but to ask them to move on.

Again, for anyone reading this who might not understand the intent of withdrawing fellowship - this in no way suggests that they are "separated from God" or any such thing. Their relationship with God is between God and them alone, and no other human can interfere with that. All this church would be doing is ending their relationship with that particular congregation. The hope is that they would be impressed by that action, to take a look at themselves and perhaps make some changes in their behavior when they eventually align with some other congregation. And this is scriptural, no question about it.

Possum, I can't believe Laci is turning six. Wasn't that baby just born a couple of years ago? Time sure does fly. Bless her sweet little heart.

Well, guess I'd better go feed MY baby. She's going to be really ricked when I leave for work tonight, but she'll get over it. Ted will be here in the morning, probably before I get home, to install a ceiling fan in this room. He has the codes, will just come on in, and will be half-finished by the time I get home. Since I spend so much time here, I don't know why I've never had one put in before, but I'm taking care of it now. With ceiling fans in strategic places, I find I can keep my thermostat about four degrees higher, which saves approximately $40 a month on my electric bill - or so I'm told. Whatever - it has to save some, and those fans run for pennies. Asa and Spot, what's your opinion on that subject?

Well, I'm gone. See you folks later. --Romeena
September 03, 2009 - Msg 74966: "ricked"? What's that? Sounds painful! I meant "ticked", of course. --Romeena
September 03, 2009 - Msg 74967: I believe you are exactly right, Romeena. Neither Bruce nor I have ever been in a situation like this in which someone is in the position of needing church discipline and it has made us have to seek the Lord and search the scriptures. There is no doubt that not only Paul, but Jesus himself told us how to deal with those who sow dischord among the believers. Matthew 18 contains Jesus' words about such. One of his followers asks him how often he should forgive his brother and Jesus says that if anyone has been wronged by a "brother", which I take to mean someone of the faith in this instance, he should go to him and tell him. If he refuses to listen, find someone else to go with you to try and make reconcilation with the person. If that doesn't work, take the situation before the church body and if they have no respect for the church or those in authority there, don't have anything to do with them. That was sort of a blend of what I read in Matthew and Titus, chapter 3. As Ro said, though, all of this should be done in humility and in love, in the hopes that the person would realize their wrong and come back into fellowship with the church. I don't like the whole situation and would rather not be involved but now I know that such things, left undealt with can have present and eternal consequences and I hope that if I ever come to the place that she is in, that the church will deal out some discipline to help me see what I am doing. We ae all getting an education right now, believe me.

Doin' laundry (what's new) and cleaning out the frige (eww). Better get back at it...

Boo
September 03, 2009 - Msg 74968: Thanks,Boo. My daughter said that Laci seemed ok,but for the fever last night. Doctor didn't find anything wrong. Said that kids will sometimes spike a fever if they'd been around someone sick-kind of an immune system thing. Strange. Anyhow,I thought it best under the circumstances that I not keep Laci. I'm not feeling well myself. My daughter is ticked off with me now because today is her friend's birthday & they wanted to do something. Tough.Anyway,I heard that she went off on me in a phone call to my mama. Mama didn't tell me though,my sister did. Oh well. Somebody needs to grow up. I tried to call & check on Laci,but I just get my daughter's voice mail. If I was calling to offer money,or my time,she's answer the phone.Whatever. Just kind of hurts,though.
Well,got that off my chest. Think I'll go watch Bonanza in a few minutes-Hoss will cheer me up!
*******************
possum under a rock
September 03, 2009 - Msg 74969: Just got a call from my daughter.She sounded ok with me,guess she got over her hissy fit! Anyhow,she said Laci seems ok. Hope she doesn't end up sick though.
Let's go over to the Diner and have ourselves a concealed in heavy sauce kind of supper!
************
possum again
September 03, 2009 - Msg 74970:
Prayers for all porchsters.
God bless,
MDC
September 03, 2009 - Msg 74971: Romena I have3 Ceiling fans in all my rooms except the bathrooms...even have two on the front porch...they work great...makes me sleep good with it on low...just a hummin!..hey Boo..Possum I got tied up...ya wana slip over to the diner with me now for a late snack...maybe a grilled cheese or something...recon people will talk?...better take Boo with us..and Boo bring a paper ok...Boo during washing get my shorts hun...ya know im a single man and wash everything together!..have been taught better but really dont see the need to seperate much..I do wash all the towels seperate...and bed dressings....ok enough of that...I got to slick back my hair if im going to the diner for a late snack...hey MDC...yall its racing under the lights for the first time here in Hot Alanta Sunday night...bunch of my Buds are going but think I will just watch on the tube ...miss Sherry will be working...going on a 32 mile bike ride Saturday...should be good weather...apb for Lucy,Maude,Tom,Rev,Hazel,HM,Mavis!....ok watching the falcons right now..pre season Football.....SPOT
September 03, 2009 - Msg 74972: Boo, why would that woman even come to church if she isn't interested in scripture?! I think Romeena is right; sounds like a trouble-maker. She needs some heavy-duty prayer to get back on track me thinks.

Possum, glad things are a little better between you and your daughter. Hope it stays that way.

-Sterling Holobyte
September 04, 2009 - Msg 74973: Good morning gang....lets hit the good old Waffle House this Morning..on me...possum will you bring a local newspaper...cant have my breakfast without my paper...well its home at 6am this morning and back at 2 for 16 more then off for a few days...go on grave yard mon thru Friday 10 pm till 6 am starting Monday to get the new man trained for his start in rotation in October..not crazy about working 8 hr days 5 days a week but they want me on night shift with him this last month to see if he is ready....im sure he will be...well see ya at b-fast...Maude come on with all of us now...prayers....Rev watch for the truck brother....SPOT
September 04, 2009 - Msg 74974: Mornin' Y'all! I'll bring the newspaper,Spot. Wonder why a dog always wants a newspaper? Ha Ha
Thanks,Sterling. Sometimes I catch a lot of grief from that girl.I try to maintain my peace for Laci's sake,but I sure have been hurt at times.Oh well,it's a new day. I hope everyone has a happy Friday!
See y'all at Waffle House.
*******************
possum under a rock
September 04, 2009 - Msg 74975: Sterling, we have been trying for years...I think the only reason she probably comes is because of the kids. She is one of those people who puts her kids in VBS or some kind of camp every week of the summer...they can't miss out on anything. She kind of spoils them rotten that way. Its pretty sad because I think she is trying to make a "perfect life" for them because hers was so terrible (abusive dad). She is doing them much more harm than she realizes. If ever there was a case of denial, she's been in it for years. I think she is running from having to deal with the pain of the past and so many things she needs to deal with and she is a total control freak for that reason. If anyone threatens that control, it gets ugly. I believe its all very fear-based. It is a sad situation that has gotten worse over the years as it goes undealt with. So, knowing what I do about her, I have compassion her. I know what she is, but I still love her and hate that she has come to this. My friend Karen, who passed away, spent alot of time with her over the years and tried to help her, but it never worked. Some people are so broken that you don't know if anyone can ever get through to them, and as Romeena said, they become toxic to those around them. I have been dealing with it for years and would sometimes see a little progress, as far as the control issue with the kids. I guess she didn't come very far. I feel like I am at the "letting go" point and am turning her over to God. He can change things but letting things continue as they are would not be the right thing for her or the church. Hope you all understand and don't think I am being too harsh.

Yes, it is interesting that SPOT always asks for the paper, isn't it? I thought dogs were afraid of newspapers? Next he'll be asking us to bring him our slippers...

Possum, most of us catch alot of grief from our kids at some point (or many points, ha). Sounds like you are a loving mom towards her and you certainly have been a big help with Laci. Sorry you have been hurt, my out-on-the-town-giggolo club buddy. ;-)

TGIF...I think, oh wait a minute...that means everyone will be home for three days since it's the labor day weekend...(just kidding).

Be back later...oh, and yes SPOT, I will wash your shorts, throw them on the pile with Me-They's (if you don't mind ya'lls shorts touching)...you don't have to worry about the starch because there's no way I am ironing underwear!

Boo
September 04, 2009 - Msg 74976: Speaking of Karen, her son Zach who I talk about so often, had his first junior varsity football game last Thursady and fractured a rib. He was in some serious pain Sunday but came to church, anyway. His dad and stepmom separated about three weeks ago and Zach and his little sister Allison have been coming to church alone. God bless them. I am so thankful that Karen took them to church while she was living. I feel very sorry for Allison (she just turned 10) and she was very close to her stepmom. It's like she has lost 2 moms now. Poor baby.

Better go..

Boo
September 04, 2009 - Msg 74977: Maybe the dad and stepmom will get back together. I am glad that Allison was able to bond with her. With prayer, maybe things will resolve.

Jess is still home sick with sore throat and earache. Back to the doctor again today - and he WANTS to go!

So Obama is addressing our nation's children next week. I am glad that my children know a little about the political landscape and can discern what is true and what is not.

hm
September 04, 2009 - Msg 74978: Hey yall im a dog that can talk and READ too!...thanks for the short washing Boo....well quick turn around and its back to work at 2...will holler then...hey possum....and HM...lunch at Olive Garden yall....SPOT
September 04, 2009 - Msg 74979: Hey, porch. Yep, Mr. O wants to address the nation's children, according to OneNewsNow. Predictably, the press releases regarding the content of the speech are already beginning to shift and change, as the uproar increases. It will be interesting to see if he actually goes through with it, and if he does, what is actually said. This I know, if I still had children in school, they would be staying home on that day. I do not need that man indoctrinating my children with his socialist agenda, nor would I permit any teacher to encourage them to "read books about Obama", as he has suggested the teachers do. Honestly, his ego is unbelievable.

Boo, I hear and admire your compassion for the trouble-making woman. You have a good heart. However, there are those who for whatever reason just will not cease their poisonous activity, and it appears she is one of them. Lots of people were abused as children, but they don't all turn out like that. No matter the circumstances, ultimately we all make our choices, for good or for evil. A sweet puppy can be made vicious by mistreatment, training for the pit or whatever. It's not his fault, and the reasons for his violent behavior may be obvious. However, that doesn't mean I need to take him in and try to assimilate him into my family, putting my grandchildren and the family dogs in jeopardy. Sad as it is, there is no place in a peaceful family for a vicious dog, and there's no place in a peaceful congregation for a vicious, gossiping, slandering trouble-maker. There is one difference. The poor dog cannot of his own will change his behavior. A human can, if they choose to do so. Therefore, when that woman chooses not to cease her hateful behavior, you must remember that it IS a choice. Even prayer cannot prevail when the individual in question deliberately chooses to continue in their behavior. She has made her choice, and she will have to bear the cost, which in this case is disassociation from the congregation. Sad.

Well, Ted has come and gone, I have a lovely ceiling fan gently stirring the air in this room, and I can't imagine why I waited so long to do this. Now I think I'll take my weary self to bed for a couple of hours, at least. It was a very long night. Be blessed, friends. --Romeena
September 04, 2009 - Msg 74980: I am just glad my child is in a Christian school, hm. At least then if they do show Obama's speech, which I don't think they will, I know the teachers there would not be doing any extracurricular activities to promote Obama or his agenda. Sadly, I don't think the same could be said for those poor kids in some of the public indoctrination centers..., er, schools.

Boo, I do not think you are being too harsh. You have done enough. You can't make a silk purse out of a sow's ear, you know!
Is that in the Bible? ;)

You know friends, I realize that sometimes I say I will talk more on a subject later, and then never do(was that a, "thank you for that" I just heard?) ;)
Like I just remembered I said I would say how I knew that Kai's surgery would go ok. Well, I really will talk about that, later. Because that is something I will never forget.
But while it is on my mind right now, and is something I would rather forget, I would like to talk about my plane ride back from Hawaii.
It started, as you might guess, at an airport.
Ok, all kidding aside, it actually started the night before, when my wife was checking online about our seating arrangement. She got it so we had three seats in a row(width-wise) so we would all be together.
Well, when we got to the airport, somehow the seats got mixed up and were all over the place, which we couldn't have, because one of us had to be sitting near Kai. We spoke to the counter person, and she said she would work on getting other seats. In the meantime, I told my wife to just inquire whether they had seats in 1st class(which my wife wanted anyway and I had never been in). They did, and the seats were all together(actually, two together in the middle of the aisle, and one across the aisle). So, just wanting this trip to be over, I said just take the 1st class ones(even though they were $350 extra each person).
So we each take our seats. My wife and Kai sat together in the middle of the cabin, and I took the one on the other side of the aisle(because I sat with Kai on the plane to Hawaii- in coach).
As the plane continued to fill up, I was hopeful that the window seat next to me would not be filled. But, as the last of the passengers boarded, a well-dressed gentleman took the seat. He gently ribbed me about having Kai's American Girl doll stowed under the seat in front of me, saying "Oh, I see you've brought all your toys."
I laughed, in somewhat feigned embarrassment, and told him, "No, no, that belongs to my daughter!", and pointed to her across the aisle. He asked, "Oh, is that your daughter?"
Of course I told him yes, as I really didn't want him to think it really WAS my doll.

So, everything is good. I figure that I could have gotten a worse seatmate, and should be glad I got a business-looking type of guy.
In fact, soon after we departed, he whipped out some stapled papers, and started looking through them, and writing on them as he looked through them.
Well, after a while of doing that(and me working on a crossword puzzle book), I decided to take just a quick glance over to his papers to find out what he was so diligently working on.
My eyes darted quickly over and back, and I acted like I was just looking out the window, as to not seem like a nosy person. I had to take another quick glance to see if what I saw was really what I saw.
It turns out, this guy who I thought was a business-man looking through some financial papers or something, was actually looking through a spreadsheet full of lots and lots of names, numbers and whatnot, of mostly girls(I guessed), and what they could do(enter your most disgusting graphic lewd thought here). I still don't know what he was writing as he looked through them, but after that, I never looked at those spreadsheets again. I just thought about Kai, and was glad she couldn't see what he was reading. I also wondered about what kind of "business" this guy was in, and I thought about his comment about "my toys" and that I showed him who my daughter was. Then I thought that if you even glance at my daughter, I will rip your head off.
So then, he finally puts that away, and gets out a laptop. I thought oh oh, if he starts looking at dirty pictures or videos, which Kai would be able to see if she looks over, I am either going to, A. tell a stewardess, B. tell him to stop it directly, or C. close the laptop myself.
It never came to that, because he was just looking at more spreadsheet type written word stuff that Kai couldn't see. I didn't see what it was but I just figured it was more of what he was looking at in hard copy.
He then put that away, and starting reading a magazine. I did my quick glance and saw he was just reading an article, something titled, "The _______ s#x laws in America".

Then, after we ate dinner(I had the chicken, which I have to be honest, the chicken stuff we had in coach was alot better than this) he brought out his sicko spreadsheets again, and began running through the papers and writing on them again.
After he did that for a while, he brought out the laptop, and this time was bringing up pictures of women(at least they were not little girls). Fully clothed and all, and not in provocative positions or anything, though I still worried a little about Kai opening her eyes and wondering what this guy was looking at - she was sleeping by this time). The thing was, before he would expand the pics, I could see that there were probably thousands of little pictures on the screen, because he would scroll down and up among them. I was very uncomfortable with him looking at these, because of Kai, and I never knew whether the next one he would pull up would be more than just a pic of a clothed girl.
Luckily, he stopped looking at them pretty quick. Either he sensed my growing irritation at him, or he just had had enough of visual stimulation for now. Or it was because I was watching "Gran Torino" on my little screen and he didn't want me to go all Clint Eastwood on him.
He then got out a little electronic gizmo. I again thought, oh oh. Maybe now he plans on watching some racy movie or something since he has a small screen. But luckily he just put on some headphones, put his seat back, and went to sleep. I hate to think of what he was listening to. Probably the soundtrack to his favorite x-rated movie.
It was then that I actually began to feel sorry for the guy. I thought what a dark and empty life, to be so obsessed with the carnal side of life. I know I should have probably brought up Jesus, and whether he knows him, or would like to. But I didn't. And that is on me. I'll never know if some hopeful words like that could have started something growing in him to turn from the wicked life he was apparently living. Maybe, maybe not.
I was just so uncomfortable with him that I didn't even want to look at him. And I was more concerned at the time, of keeping him from knowing anything more about my daughter, wife, or myself. I didn't even use the restroom the whole trip because I didn't want to risk him rifling through our bags and possibly getting some info on us, especially after he acknowledged Kai when he first came on the plane.
I did pray for him, and continue to, that God would show him the error of his ways, and what a path to destruction, physically and spiritually, he is leading himself down.

Anyway, that was my first time riding in first class. And if those are the types of people who travel first class, I will stick to coach next time.

Sorry for the long story. But it was a Loooonnnnggggg plane ride for me. :)

-Sterling Holobyte



September 04, 2009 - Msg 74981: Thanks for the reality check, Ro. You're a good friend. Love ya.

I wish you could retire, Romeena. I hate to think of you working so hard because I know the demands of that job. So you like the fan..I like to sleep under them but if I just sit under them I start feeling sleepy and my eyes water...go figure. We have them in our new living room, bedrooms and both porches so I better get used to it.

Gotta go...frying chicken to take to mom and dad and it is good as Aunt Bee's...I hope. ;-)

Boo
September 04, 2009 - Msg 74982: Man, I love the way you tell a story, Sterling! You really had me hooked (ever consider writing a book?...maybe a mystery/thriller?). I wonder if that guy was some kind of pimp in the s#x trade? Kind of sounds like it to me. Must have been creepy and I don't know what I would have done in your position but I think my curiosity would have gotten the best of me and I would have had to ask what in the world he did for a living. I mean, if someone brings out a list like that while he is sitting right next to you, it doesn't seem like he is very concerned about his privacy. I think it is very touching that even though this person repulsed you, you still felt compassion for him and are praying for him. God bless you for it.

I am anxious to hear the story about how you knew Kai's surgery would go well....I know I was praying that you would get that assurance, as were the rest of us, I'm sure. Would love to hear how God did it.

Well, the chicken is fried, gravy made, peach cobbler out of the oven, rice done, and green peas with butter..these are my sister's favorites and I really did it for her. Unfortunately, she called and told me that her husband wants to go out to eat. I really wanted to spend some time with her. Sometimes I miss her alot. We used to be closer and saw each other nearly everyday. Now she works part time and helps my parents and any spare time she has, she seems to spend with her daughter-in-law. Times change. It used to be just the two of us but the Lord has blessed us with so many additions to our family that we are just too busy to spend much time together anymore. Her facing these upcoming tests had made me want to spend time with her but I feel frustrated that it is so hard to do so. The other day, she surprised me and went with me to help when I had to take mom to the cardiologist. While mom was getting an echocardiogram, Susan and I went downstairs to get some coffee. The dr's office was adjacent to the hospital I worked in for 10 years, so we walked to the cafeteria and went up to the floor I used to work on. Sounds simple, but the time meant so much to me. Just taking a walk and talking to her was great.

Better go...time to get Erin from school

Boo
September 04, 2009 - Msg 74983:
Been busy the last few days, but i am thinking
of, and praying for, ALL you great folk!
MDC
September 04, 2009 - Msg 74984: Man that sounds like a meal Boo...busy here back in just a bit....SPOT
September 04, 2009 - Msg 74985: I saved some for you, SPOT. I'll send it over and you can have it for lunch tomorrow. :-)

Boo
September 05, 2009 - Msg 74986: Thanks Boo...well its almost quiting time for me this great sat morning..gona be a great weather day...gona go home and sleep and then its a 32 mile labor day bike ride at 1:00 pm today...should be a crowded ride....got 3 water bottles froze!..sunflower seeds ready!...well lets have a bisquit and ham breakfast since I got to get some rest...Romeena hope ya work was not to hard if ya worked last night...hello sterling,possum,HM,Rev,Tom,auh20?,Lucy?,Mavis....where is Mavis did I miss a post while my Modem was down to explain?....well thanks God for a great day and for a safe bike trip...will holler in a bit....Rev and other sports fans...its College Football Opening Day!..Bulldogs on the road...Joe Cox (our quaterback)may have the flue...did not fly out with the team yesterday...may show up today...and Race Weekend here in Atlanta under the lights...ok...got to get this place ready for the next shift...prayers ...SPOT
September 05, 2009 - Msg 74987: Morning Y'all! Have a safe ride,Spot. Let's go to I-HOP for breakfast.And yes,Spot,we'll make sure somebody brings ya a newspaper!
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possum under a rock
P.S. Been wonderin' about Mavis,myself. No,spot,you haven't missed her-she hasn't been here lately.
September 05, 2009 - Msg 74988: You can find Mavis on facebook, SPOT. She and hubby have been very busy with work and they are now out at the new homestead, doing work on the house and staying in the RV until things are ready for them to move in. I'm sure she is very happy to be there and out of her old neighborhood.

Last night Bruce and I finally had a night to celebrate our anniversary. At around 5, I farmed out the kids to realatives and got home, I was exhausted...no energy left (this would make for some exciting anniversary, eh?). I grabbed a quick nap on the couch to get energized and it helped alot. I told Bruce i didn't want to do anything fancy that would require getting dressed up, so we went for a drive and went out to the house and sat on the porch for a couple of hours and talked. They are starting to put the Hardy plank on the front of the house and it is so pretty. They put the fireplace box in yesterday but have yet to do the stone around it. That sucker is bigger than I thought it would be but I guess it's ok. It's not like we have many chances to build a fire down here, but it's nice when we do. I still have about 10 million (being obtuse...) pieces of wood out back, thanks to Bruce and his chainsaw. I guess we could always sell some of it. Anyway, getting on with the original story...after having a great talk, we went to eat at my favorite little diner, The Bakery Cafe. We got one of the end booths with lots of room and we sat there for two more hours, laughing and talking. Now, THAT is my kind of evening. I am a simple woman and a cheap date.;-) I was all settled into bed after my shower and it was one of those nights when you just fall into your comfortable bed and it feels like heaven..ya'll know that feeling after an exhausting day...it was about 11:15 and I had just cozied up to Bruce when the phone rang. Erin was crying and complaining of leg pain and wanted to come home. Bruce had to go get her from his mom's. Secretly, I was glad to have her home. I always feel happier when my kids are under my roof at night. Anyway, it was a nice evening.

Mavis isn't the only person missing. There have few of us on the porch recently. Wonder where everyone is?

Well, SPOT, you have a good bikeride and be safe.

See you at IHOP, Possum.

Boo
September 05, 2009 - Msg 74989: Ok...opinion time...St Susan is remodeling her kitchen. It is a small, galley-type kitchen with very limited counter space but she doesn't seem to care because she hates to cook and makes almost everything in her trusty crock pot. She has beautiful new all-wood cabinets being put in and they are the really nice ones, not cheapy. She is getting new appliances and sink, the whole works. Here's we I need opinions. She is talking about putting formica countertops (I think that's what you call it) because they cost less. They are not at all inexpensive, though. Since there is so little counter space anyway, I am trying to talk her into getting granite or the silestone/zodiac manufactured graite that doesn't stain, scratch or burn. It would add value to the house if they sell it later and I think if she is going to really fix it up, she should not scrimp on the counters. Her husband has a good job and they could afford it, she is just super-frugal. I think I am going to meet her at Lowes and show her the silestone...

Better go...what am I doing up at 7:30 when I could sleep in?!

Boo
September 05, 2009 - Msg 74990: I like the granite - having had formica at the other house, I really love these that I have now!!

hm
September 05, 2009 - Msg 74991: I vote with hm. I have formica, simply because that's about all that was available at a reasonable cost twenty years ago! It's in perfect condition, so I can't really justify replacing it. I would love to have granite, or even Corian, but I have about twenty feet of counter space, and that would be expensive! Of course, the stovetop and sink come out of that but you still have to buy the whole slab, and the cutouts are just wasted. You're right, the formica isn't cheap either.

I'll bet Susan is looking at the total cost of the granite, and thinking about how much it is. She's forgetting that she's going to be spending a large part of that anyway, for the formica. The difference in the cost of the two, is what she needs to be considering, and I'll bet it's not really all that much, in a small kitchen.

Try this - ask her which she would prefer if cost was no consideration. Then take an arbitrary period of time, say ten years, and divide it into the difference in the cost. Let's use $500 difference, though I doubt it will be that much. Then ask her if it's worth $50 a year to her to have the countertop she really wants.

Yes - for those who are wondering - my Dale used to say I could rationalize robbing a bank and make it sound like a good idea, if I was sufficiently motivated. I guess he was right.

Well, off I go. Be blessed, friends. --Romeena

September 05, 2009 - Msg 74992: Where is everybody? Did the dam bust? --Romeena
September 05, 2009 - Msg 74993: It's been "slim pickins" around here for about a week, Ro...don't know where everyone went off to.

Boo
September 05, 2009 - Msg 74994: Where the heck is everybody?...I'm getting lonely here on the porch along...sniff... ;-)

Boo
September 05, 2009 - Msg 74995: ALONE, I mean..
September 05, 2009 - Msg 74996: There's NOBODY home!
(shouts Hazel, imitating Big Maude Tyler)
September 06, 2009 - Msg 74997: HAHAHAHA!!! Good one, Hazel. Where's AL?? Maybe he will want to dance with me...

Boo
September 06, 2009 - Msg 74998: Just watched a movie on TNT that will give me nightmares! It was called "Trapped" and had Kevin Bacon and Courtney Love in it. These creeps kidnap a little girl with asthma. Kevin Bacon was horrid! Lots of suspence (too much). Wish I hadn't watched it even if it did have a good ending. I give it 2 stars and my advice is to skip it altogether...

Better get some shut-eye...I don't know why I am here talking to myself... ;-)

Boo
September 06, 2009 - Msg 74999: Good night, Boo, though you're probably already gone off to bed. I just dropped back by on my way to my own ironing board. I don't know why on earth I'm still up at 1:00 a.m., when I have to get up at 6:30 to make that 8:15 church service. I had enough trouble when it was at 9:00 - now it's 45 minutes earlier, and it's really hard. It's mostly us older folks in that service, though, so maybe it's best this way. The young families with kids would never make it. They mostly come to the contemporary service that follows Sunday School.

I'm sticking with the traditional service, even if it is too early. I just don't care for all those praise choruses, sung over and over and over. I like 'em okay, but they just overdo it, in my opinion. I mean once or twice is fine, but five or six times through gets old. When people are shifting from one foot to the other, and some are sitting down, it's time to change the bobbin. I like a good old solid hymn mow and then too, and for that you have to come early. Oh well, things change.

OK, I'm off to bed. Toye Starr is under my desk, and pops her little head out every time I move, hoping I'm moving toward the bedroom. She loves her sleep, that puppy. She's especially weary right now, because I gave her a bath earlier and she just hates that. Pouts for a couple of hours, but I don't care. She needed it!

Be blessed, all. --Romeena
September 06, 2009 - Msg 75000:
Hazel, you had me laughing! Maude's line is one
of my favorites of the whole series!
My #1 favorite scene is Andy and Miss Peggy singing
on the front porch!
Well, it IS the holiday weekend, so maybe people are just away for a few days.
We had RAIN today! It was great!
Prayers and nighty nite!
MDC
September 06, 2009 - Msg 75001: Good Sabbath Porch.
I've been AWOL for a few days. My mother figure board on my work computer fried, and it's gonna take a few days to get a new computer. And I have just been so doggone busy here at home I ain't had much time to sit and chat.
Hope all is well with everyone.
MDC, were you right out there in the rain? That scene with Andy and Peggy is one of my favorite's too. Andy always struck me as a smart feller, but how he let her get away is beyond me. Maybe she flew away with the hungry buzzard, Don. (His name would have to be Don) I always wondered what happened to Peg, She just disappeared. Oh well.

Not sure if I'm gonna make it to preachin today or not. Dang misey in my back has got me walking crooked again. :( Again, oh well.

Guess I'll go see what I can scrounge up for breakfast.

Asa



September 06, 2009 - Msg 75002: good Sabbath to all.Thought I'd check in before someone got the idea to smoke me out from under my rock! Yep,it sure has been quiet on the Porch lately.

Hey to Hazel! Your Big Maude imitation was real good. Do you take off on Cary Grant too?!

Boy,Sterling,your story about the man seated next to you on the plane creeped me out. I can imagine how you felt.Makes you wonder how he can go tosleep at night,knowing how he exploits women to make his living. Sad..and scary.

Asa,you're gonna have to tone down your act over at the Gigolo Club.You are wearing your back out with all that shimmeying!

Lunch,anybody? Let's all head over to Spot's doghouse.We'll get him to bbq something!
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possum under a rock
September 06, 2009 - Msg 75003: Good afternoon, porch. I actually made it to preaching on time this morning! (Makes me kinda proud.) The sermon was good, and definitely not dry as dust, in spite of the fact that he was preaching about stewardship. He told about taking his little 2-yr old granddaughter to McDonald's for a happy meal, and her reaction when he reached for one of the french fries. Made a great analogy to teach about tithing. He paid for the fries, but the child declared they were hers and told him he couldn't have any. You can take it from there, I'm sure.

It's a bit cloudy outside, sure do wish it would rain. We need it so bad, but not as bad as the rest of the state, especially down south. From Central Texas on down to the coast, they're just baking. There's got to be some relief soon.

Well, I have my work cut out for me. Yep, the pond filter. Oh well, I haven't cleaned it since Friday morning, so it's doing a bit better. As soon as things cool down this fall, it will drop off to every ten days or so, as the algae quits blooming.

Nothing to do but go do it. I hate to sweat! Be blessed, all. --Romeena
September 06, 2009 - Msg 75004: Well, today was kind of tough and I am feeling a little low...I think I need one of Romeena's pep talks. I've been feeling like I swallowed a brick all day...bet ya'll know that feeling. I think I'll send her an email instead of bothering all of you with this continuing problem.

It was raining we got out of church today...a real downpour! Sure was nice to see. There is beginning to be a hint of fall in the air...not cool yet by any means but the mornings and evenings are getting a bit cooler.

So sorry about your back, ASA...do you want your head harness back so's you can hang yourself in the closet?;-)

There is a little TAGS marathon on tonight and I just watched the one of the two color episodes I like...the one when Warren arrests the women's auxiliary for playing bingo. I love the dialogue between Andy and Warren in the courthouse, when Andy is trying to get Warren to drop the charges and he is being very stubborn. Warren says that he swore to uphold the law and Andy asks him if he knows what the law is. Warren says something about watching all the Perry Mason episodes and Andy said (as he storms out of the courthouse) "Well did you see the one where the pig-headed deputy gets killed by the berserk sheriff?!!"...funny.

Better get back to it.

Boo
September 06, 2009 - Msg 75005: Left over BBQ at the dog house yall!...and a newspaper to read...baked beans,maude slaw.....RACE is ON in Atlanta!.....back in a bit...ride was a good one but ...hum....ok..ok...im SORE!...SPOT
September 07, 2009 - Msg 75006:
Asa- I recently have been doing back exercises
and receiving some massage therapy and it has
really helped my back problems.
Also, I think I read one time that they wanted to do more eps with miss peggy, but SHE is the one who wanted to move on.
Possum- I can take off on Chester. Does that count? ha
Prayers for Boo and for rain in Dallas!
MDC
September 07, 2009 - Msg 75007: Was there ever an Andy episode that talked about LABOR DAY?
September 07, 2009 - Msg 75008: Mornin' Y'all! Hope everyone is all geared up for a DOUBLE celebration- Not only is it Labor Day,but it's also Laci's birthday! Yep,she turns 6 today.
So,I'll bring the cake, Asa,you bring some of those sparklers you use in your act,spot,you are in charge of grilling hot dogs,Maude will make slaw,Boo,how about you bring some sweet tea? MDC will bring the ice cream and we'll have ourselves a ding dang doozy of a time!
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possum under a rock