July 15, 2018 - Msg 110211: HI ALL, The Ghost and Mr. Chicken was on ME-TV tonight. It has been many years since I have seen it, but after being on this porch so long, I know now why I have always enjoyed it.
First, it was written by two TAGS writers,next
Don wore a salt and pepper suit, and talked about his whole body being a weapon. Third, there are several tags actors in it, such as the old checker player man,(cant recall his name) the FBI man, the man in the bank job ep, Big Maude, AKA mrs Poltice, etc. A fun watch.
ASA, where did you get the Fugitive dvds? As u know,
I really like that show too. Hope your chicken came out good!
RO, I hope all went well with family. Always 'fun' to put them to work! :)
BOO--my prayers are with you and yours.
JOHN--not much at graceland tonight. I think the paint is dry. haha
HI to LUCY, glad you are back. Thanks for all the info about dear Tom.

Good Sabbath,
MDC
July 15, 2018 - Msg 110212: Good Sabbath morning all.

Nice sweeping job MDC. I'm not sure that I have ever seen The Ghost and Mr. Chicken before. Sounds like a fun watch. My Wife got me the Fugitive set for a gift. I think she bought them from Amazon. Last night I saw an episode that had both Rance and Ronny Howard in it. Rance was a very small part (just one line), but Ronny had a major part. The chicken came out not to bad. I know chicken has to be thoroughly cooked, and I tend to over cook it sometimes. That's why I got thighs instead of brea$ts so I don't dry it out so much.

Romeen, I twinged my back when I was mowing. Actually the deck belt broke in the middle of my mow, so I had to replace it. I think at some point when doing that I must have moved wrong and threw my back out. Anyway, I went with the casserole plan because standing there frying chicken wasn't going to be an option. But thanks for walking me through the process. Do you ever brine your chicken?

Boo, so good to see you. Sorry your feeling down. I got some news yesterday that has kind of depressed me too. So maybe we can comfort each other. What's the old saying, Misery loves company?

Well I'm not sure I'm gonna make it to preaching now. I'll go get some ice on it and see what that does.

Prayers continue for Nick and for Toms family and for all of you.

Asa
July 15, 2018 - Msg 110213: Hey folks,
A Good Sabbath to you all!
Boo - I have been in your shoes many a time and am currently there now. Sometimes I look to the sky and go.."Really?!?!" Remember what I told you before, one step at a time and take those "me" moments whenever you can get 'em.

Asa - Hope your back gets better! I have a touchy back that does what IT wants to, WHEN it wants to. I sympathize!

A heart hello to Romeena, MDC, SPOT, Lucy, Maude, possum and everyone else attending Seth Taylor's statue unveiling.

John Masters
July 15, 2018 - Msg 110214: Good evening, porch. Seems like we're all kinda "dumpy" today. Maybe it's the loss of our TOM that's making us feel that way, or at least making us more vulnerable to the "dumpies" when we face a setback, a disappointment, or bad news. It happens to all of us at times. I have a little friend who helps me indirectly at such times. I don't even remember where I got him, but he seems to help, and I finally set him up to be my "greeter" when I turn my monitor on. I have other wallpaper, but he's superimposed, and never fails to make me feel just a little bit better. I wish I knew how to give you a link to him, but since he actually lives in my photo files, I don't know how to do that. I can, however, send him as an attachment to an email. I'll send him to those who are involved here in this conversation, and if anyone else runs across this and would like to have my little friend, just email me, and I'll send him.

Asa, I hope your back eases up, and I don't blame you one bit for not standing there frying chicken! I wouldn't have either. Whatever the news was that made you feel depressed, I will pray that God will make your way smooth.

MDC, you are steadily in my prayers, as you are navigating the healthcare waters these days. This too shall pass, and we pray that you'll come out on the other side of it feeling wonderful.

Boo, I think the end of your rope must have many knots in it. Hang in there, love. God loves you, and you know that, and things will get better.

Well, guess I'll go kick back for a little while, and then maybe go to bed early for a change. I have to get up earlier than usual, as I'm supposed to be getting my two new front teeth tomorrow! This temporary set looks pretty darned good, and the dentist assures me the real thing will be a lot better, so I can hardly wait. He says they will look better than my real teeth did, and they're still "mine" as they're caps, not a bridge. Blessings, friends. Sleep well. --Romeena
July 15, 2018 - Msg 110215: May the Lord Jesus be with us all as we walk thru this latest valley. He is with us, as well as the Holy Spirit, who is our comforter, and our gift from the Father.
Amen.

MDC :)
July 16, 2018 - Msg 110216: Sometimes all we need to do is put on our “Spirit of Mayberry” glasses ... https://youtu.be/D38S9o_6qnc
We never know what one can see through them... Made me think of our TOM, I just hope we made some of his days here a little better...

Possum, I just happened on to this video..Coincidence? I think 🤔....NOT!....Just Sayin’....

G-F
July 16, 2018 - Msg 110217: Great video, G-F! I'm with you-definitely a God Wink!

Have a good night,All.

***********
possum u.a.r.
July 16, 2018 - Msg 110218: Wow. That is a powerful video, G-F. When it first started, I thought it was an ad and was waiting for it to end, but was fascinated when I realized what it was. I'm passing this one along, and thank you, my friend. As for TOM, I believe we did make his life just a little better. We replaced his TV, so he had something to entertain him in his lonely situation We replaced his computer, so his contact with us and the rest of the world was not broken, and we fixed his furnace so he didn't spend a winter being cold. Don, if you're lurking, please understand that "we" includes you. Especially you, because we couldn't have helped TOM without you being the hands and feet of Jesus, on the scene. Also, you gave TOM your computer, and you located the HVAC man who fixed his furnace, at no charge for the labor. You are a card-carrying porchster, whether you rock with us or not, and we appreciate you. God will not forget, either.

Well, I saw the dentist today, and have a brand-new set of TEMPORARY caps. The new permanent ones were just not right. I looked like a chipmunk. The were too big, and nowhere near white enough. I was trying to be polite, and telling the tech that I thought they might not be quite right, and the dentist walked in, took one look and said "And I agree completely. Get those things off of her, and let's start over. I will discuss it with the lab." So, I get another set next week, and I hope they're much better. I think they will be.

Toye Starr is on the puny list. She quit eating on Saturday, ate nothing Sunday or this morning, and woke me up three times last night to help her off the bed so she could potty. I think she may have a bladder infection. So I took her to her doctor this afternoon. She had a fever, which was a good thing. Sick dog with no fever could be anything, like even a major organ system failure, cancer, whatever. Sick dog with a fever - probably an infection and antibiotics will fix it.
So, he drew blood (will get that report in the morning) gave her something for the fever and started her on antibiotics. Result - she actually ate a little bit this evening! Sweet little thing, it breaks my heart and scares me when she's sick. She will be eleven next week, and that scares me too. I don't know what I would do without her.

Well, guess I'll go eat a little bit of fruit, watch some TV, and relax a while. Have a good night's rest, friends, and remember to act like somebody! But then, you always do. --Romeena
July 17, 2018 - Msg 110219: ELEVEN?? Wow, time sure flies! Glad that she is feeling better already.
I will be in California from Wed. thru Friday
this week, so I will be away from the keyboard.
(Do we still say AFK?)
We had a BEAUTIFUL sunset here tonight. I will post
a couple of pics on FB soon.
Miracle Salve ep was on tonight. Always enjoy that one.
More later.
Prayers,
MDC
July 17, 2018 - Msg 110220: Cal e forn ya?
July 17, 2018 - Msg 110221: Mornin' Porch!

Update on Nicholas: He's still in the hospital getting PT and counseling. His commander is deciding whether to bring him to the States or Germany for more testing. That's the latest.

MDC - You know I don't recall ever seeing The Ghost and Mr. Chicken. I'll look for it later. What will take you to California? Bryson just got back from there. He went to a nerd convention, bless him.

Asa - Did you know that Chick-fil-A brines their chicken in pickle juice? I hope your crick gets better!

Romeena - Yes, I do believe we have all been a bit dumpy. I hope Toye Starr gets to feeling better!

Hey to Spot, Possum, G-F, John Masters, and all! I hope everyone has a most wonderful day! I woke up so sleepy (didn't sleep well) but got some Starbucks and am now ready to work. :)

Blessings,
~Lucy

July 17, 2018 - Msg 110222: Good morning, porch. Beautiful day here, but gonna be a hot one! We're in triple digits now, and looks like we will stay there for the next week or so, at least. They're predicting 107° for Thursday. Yuck. No rain in sight, and we need it so badly. I don't even want to think about my water bill.

Toye Starr is feeling better this morning. She fought with me when I tried to give her the fever med. I poked it halfway down her throat, and thought it was gone. Then a couple of minutes later I found it stuck to her ear. How does she DO that??? Anyway, I just ground it to a powder and mixed it in her soft food, which to my joy, she ate! Her antibiotic is a liquid, and I just squirt it in her mouth and she has no choice but to swallow it. Her doc called this morning, said her blood labs all look fine, and he thinks she probably had a little bladder infection. That would explain her waking me three times to help her off the bed so she could potty, and then the spot on her little pad would be about the size of a quarter. Sounds like a bladder infection to me! Anyway, this morning she's her chipper little self, so I guess all is well.

Lucy, hang in there! I can't imagine how hard it must be for you, and how concerned you must be for Nick. At least you know he's safe where he is, and getting help for his needs. Prayers continue.

Well, guess I'll go rustle up some lunch. I think I've got the leftovers to swing it. However, I'm going to have to cook soon, or I won't have anything to have leftovers from! Blessings, friends. --Romeena
July 17, 2018 - Msg 110223: Glad Toye Starr is feeling better, that's a relief!

Thanks Asa, sorry you are dealing with something that has you down. I am still doing a fair share of struggling but trying to lean on the Lord. I know we all have our own difficulties to bear..more at certain seasons than others. This just seems to be one of those difficult seasons for me. I hang on to Jesus but boy, the storm does rage! (thanks, Ro, it will get better)

Hope our Possum is doing ok with what she is dealing with, bless her.

Thank you for the update, Lucy. I certainly hope things get better for Nicolas very soon.

Been cleaning the kitchen and doing laundry but think I might lie down and try to take a catnap. Anxiety had me up at 4am.

Boo
July 17, 2018 - Msg 110224: Prayers continue for Nicholas, Boo's family, Possum's mom, Tom's family, and all who need 'em.
MDC
July 17, 2018 - Msg 110225: .....And Safe Travels for MDC Too Buddy!
July 17, 2018 - Msg 110226: Thank you MDC, I sure need and appreciate those prayers.

Catnap didn't work..ended up going to the store and now have to start dinner.

Boo
July 17, 2018 - Msg 110227: HaHa Boo...I misread your post.. Thought you said you’d try to take some CATNIP!..😳 I better clean my glasses.🤓

G-F
July 17, 2018 - Msg 110228: I might try that, G-F

Boo
July 17, 2018 - Msg 110229: I might try that, G-F

Boo
July 17, 2018 - Msg 110230: I might try that, G-F

Boo
July 18, 2018 - Msg 110231: I'd say from her last 3 posts that BOO is 'nipping'
something else! ha
LUCY...it is to an all-class high school reunion in Santa Barbara that is held every summer. After running the show for 10 years, I am going as just a participant for a few days.
ALL--here is the trailer for that movie...It may jar some memories... https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LzZ0XO4ly1g
Pretty good all-star game tonight. GF--I see that your tribe still has a good division lead.
This should be it for a few days, so ya all act like somebody! :)
MDC
July 18, 2018 - Msg 110232: Good Mornin Life Saver Man!
July 18, 2018 - Msg 110233: Somebody bump Boo, she's stuck! :)

Lucy, my continued prayers for you and for Nick. I am sure this is very stressful on you. Thank you and everyone else for the prayers for my back and my depression. I am going in this morning for an adjustment, although I am feeling a lot better this morning. Yesterday I was hurting so bad I came home after only an hour at work. Maybe that was what I needed because by bedtime it was feeling a lot better. Go figure.


Romeena, I am so happy that Toye Starr is feeling better. Gosh, I can't hardly believe she is 11. Time certainly flies by.


MDC, Have fun in S.B. That is a beautiful area. I have family in S.B., Ventura, and Thousand Oaks, among other areas. These are places you will be driving by if you fly in to LAX. So holler hi to them and tell them I said "HEY".


GF and Big Maude, have fun at the meet-up. I wish I was going. One of these years I'll make it.


Possum, Prayers for you and your Mom also Dear. I know how hard this is. Please know we love you and care about you.


Prayers for all for a wonderful day,


Asa
July 18, 2018 - Msg 110234: Good morning, porch! Beautiful day, wish I could just spend it sitting here at my window looking out on the critters and birds and beauty in the back yard, but unfortunately, I have to get dressed and leave for a while. One reason it's pretty out there is that Eddie is here and has mowed and worked his magic. Unfortunately, I don't have enough cash on hand to pay him, so will have to go to the bank. By mutual agreement, we have always used cash only. Much simpler, for a lot of reasons. So, off I go. Maybe I'll stop at McDonald's and get a sausage/egg/cheese McMuffin and some hashbrowns. I never eat breakfast, as such, but a nice "brunch" now and then is fine.

I think I mentioned this when it happened on Halloween 2016, but just briefly - my neighbor across the street lost his little Pug dog that night. Someone in a car, following trick or treaters, apparently just picked her up and took off with her. It nearly broke John's heart. Gracie was his baby, and I thought he'd never get another one. Well, guess what! He did! He got another little female pug, and named her - are you ready for this - Mabel! Yep, Mabel. Could it be any funnier, or any more perfect? Little pugs are so cute anyway, always look like they're walking in high heels, and with their fairly slender rear quarters and thick, piled up wrinkles on the front end, they look like old society ladies wearing fur stoles! Mabel. I just love it!!! Makes me smile every time I think about it.

Well, guess I'd better go get Eddie some money. He's mowing a couple of other yards on the street, so I have plenty of time, but that McMuffin is sounding pretty good. Blessings, friends! --Romeena
July 18, 2018 - Msg 110235: Me again -- I received an email from our friend Don regarding the services for TOM and thought you would be interested. He won't mind if I copy it here:

I did go to the Funeral Home the evening of the visitation. The local florist was unable to make delivery, so I made the delivery myself. Tom would have liked the flowers, lots of yellow with 4 beautiful red roses. I met several family members, talked with brother Martin (Marty) and a nephew for a while. Did not find out what happened to Tom but a local friend checked the house when he did not get a response to a call. Tom had already passed. There was no talk about a stressful time so I assume it was peaceful for Tom. I drove past the cemetery where Tom would be laid to rest as I drove to Flemington. just a few miles before I came to the town. It was well kept, neat and green, He would approve. I was interested to know if the family knew about Tom's interest in the "Porch" and most of the conversation either started with or ended with something about him and the "Porch" You all were (are) his extended family. That's a good place to be. God Bless!! Don

There are good, kind and loving people on this earth, and Don leads the parade, in my opinion. Because of his willingness to give of his time, effort and yes, his money, we were able to make the last few years of Tom's life a little more pleasant and comfortable, and that makes me very happy. Thank you, Don.

Blessings, friends. --Romeena
July 18, 2018 - Msg 110236: Thank you for sharing Don's email with us, Ro. God bless him for representing us at the visitation and for all the help he's provided us so that we could help Tom.

And thank y'all for the love and kind thoughts being sent to me. I'm hanging in there,but as anyone who has gone down this road with a loved one can tell you,it's one heck of an emotional roller coaster ride. A lot of heartache,but there are sweet moments and blessings in it too. Family is coming from out West this weekend and Mama has been looking forward to the visit. I feel as if she'll make it. I pray she will.
Please continue to keep us in your thoughts and prayers. They mean a lot. Love to you all.

***********
possum u.a.r.
July 18, 2018 - Msg 110237: Good afternoon, porch. Possum, I have been where you are, and you're right, it's a rough ride. It's just hard, and there's no way around it, but you can and will get through it. Focus on the positives, whether memories or the present. Don't give in to "why didn't I" or "why did I" - there are no answers. Stay in the moment with her, love her, laugh with her, and be the sunshine in her life right now. Hang in there, you can do this. We will keep you supported with prayers, and you will survive. God loves you, and so do we. --Romeena
July 18, 2018 - Msg 110238: I really love you guys. I mean it. Thank you for sharing what you did about TOM, Romeena. I just sat and cried as I read it..to think that we had the privilege of being an extended family to TOM and to bring him love and comfort somehow. It's just an incredible blessing. I am so thankful for Don and for you, Romeena, for what you did to help us be there for TOM. You are the cats.

Possum, you are on my mind much of the time and you know you are in my prayers. It hasn't been long since I went through it so it is still very fresh in my memories and emotions. I will say that I thought I wouldn't be able to get through it at the time, but the prayers from my friends on the porch and here at home carried me through. I will also say that, for me, after it was all said and done I felt very much like I was kind of being carried through it, and it wasn't long until I was fine. I was fine with her passing on and out of her suffering and I haven't really missed her a lot. I don't know what that says about me (I hate to think), but it's not painful living without her now. I was ready to let go after a bit and once I did, it was all ok. I hope it is the same for you. Just hang onto that thought, if you can...when people say it will get better, it really will. Love you, my friend.

Boo
July 18, 2018 - Msg 110239: Thanks, Ro & Boo. I love y'all.

possum again
July 18, 2018 - Msg 110240: Thank you, Boo, for your kind words. I truly feel privileged to have been a part of making life a little better for Tom, and am so grateful for the cooperation and participation of everyone on this porch. It was a team effort, for sure!

I completely agree with what you said to Possum. When my own mom passed, it was relatively sudden. She had been in good health and normal function, when a cardiac valve failed and she had surgery to replace it. The surgery was successful, but she stroked unexpectedly, and never really recovered. For a while, we thought we were winning, but she had two more strokes after she was put back in the hospital, and we lost her about six weeks after the surgery. Seeing the condition she was in after the last two strokes, there was no way I could expect, or even want her to remain here. She was ready, we all knew that, and we just gave her up to the Lord. With my dad, it was even easier. He had spent the last two years of his life, in his befuddled Alzheimer's state, praying to God several times a day, asking to be taken "home." No one doubted that he meant heaven. He would say "I want to find Mary (my mother). I want to see Jesus." No doubt there. So, when he passed on Father's Day morning, I never shed a tear, at least not right then. I just thanked God, his prayer was answered. Now, do I miss them? Yes, of course I do. I'd love to be able to sit down and talk with them, laugh with them, just enjoy them, and I will, some day. I just can't do it here anymore.

Boo, you said you haven't really missed your mom a lot, and wonder what it says about you. Well, what it says about you is that you're completely normal. I miss my mother, yes, but I don't sit and grieve. It was her time, it was relatively easy for her, and it's over. Losing Dale was another story. It seemed too soon, he was only 58 and was healthy. It was sudden, from one moment to the next. No preparation. All of that was different from the way my parents passed. However, there's another factor that can't be overlooked.

We grow up with the knowledge that if things happen according to the usual "plan", our parents will pass before we do. We expect it. Our lives are usually somewhat separate from theirs, and their passing doesn't just strip our life bare. Losing a spouse the way I lost Dale is different. We were a couple, a single unit made up of two parts. When he passed, I didn't even know who I was anymore. Life as I knew it had disappeared, and I had to start over and build a new one. Now, here's the point. With God's help, I did. I survived. We all do. I'm not the first one to face early widowhood, and we survive. Each loss, whether spouse, parent, or God forbid, a child - leaves us feeling as though we can't handle it, we can't go on, but we can, and we do. And you, dear Possum, will be no exception. Just follow God's lead, hold to His hand, and you will do fine. Sooner than you expect, you will find yourself feeling relieved that your dear mom is out of pain, and you can go on with your life. We will keep praying for you, and for all those on our porch who are facing trials right now. Trials come and go, but each one adds a spiritual muscle to our strength, if we let it. Blessings, friend. --Romeena
July 19, 2018 - Msg 110241: Don’t shoot! Don’t shoot! It’s me, Ben Weaver!
July 19, 2018 - Msg 110242: ....Off to the Meet-Up...See Y’all in the Funny papers!....G-F
July 19, 2018 - Msg 110243: Mornin Porch: Mornin Dear. Mornin Honey. I have been reading the Front Porch for a few years. Has OTIS ever visited? Medwin Bill Medwin
July 19, 2018 - Msg 110244: Good advice, Ro. Exactly right.

Well, I have to get ready for work this evening but wanted to check in. It seems like there are some real trials on the porch and I know some of you keep most of your struggles to yourselves. I try to, but that never seems to work for me. haha So, here is one more: I spent 2 hours on the phone last night with one of my best friends, Cynthia. We grew up together and I have mentioned her on the porch for prayer in years past. She had breast cancer and it has metastasized to some vital organs and I don't know how much time she has left. She is amazingly strong and positive, which helps, but she needs a friend to walk with her in this. I am the closest friend she has and while I want to run, I love her too much to do that. So, I will be here for her and with her. Now, I know myself, and you all know me. You know I am sensitive and tend to take on too much of the pain of others and it isn't always good for me. If you all see me getting in too deep or think I need to make some space between me and the problem, please give your input. Cynthia goes for a PET scan this month to see how much the cancer has advanced and if she can tolerate more chemo to give her more time. She has a 6 month old grandbaby that she is living for and adores so she is willing to try anything to live longer. She is only 56 so I am praying for more time for her, but God's will be done.

Thanks, gotta run!

Boo
July 20, 2018 - Msg 110245: Good Friday morning porch pals.

Some very deep conversation going on here as of late I see. And some wonderful council given by Romeena. Ro, thanks for sharing that e-mail from Don. What a blessing he has been for us.

Boo, you are a special kind of person, that Cynthia would want you to be her buddy as she deals with her health. You have kindness and compassion, with no judgment towards others. I am glad you are there for her and are willing to do what you can for her. I'm not sure you can just be a friend to her and not get to emotionally involved. I think you are just wired that way. But you also have a deep faith in God, and he will be with you both, to give her comfort and you strength to deal with it all. You are both in my prayers.

Safe travels for GF and Big Maude, and for MDC in his yearly trip to So. Cal.

Still layed up with my back. Went to the Doctors on Wednesday and actually came away hurting worse. It is improved a bit since then, but still hard to straighten up.


Well I pray everyone has a great day. I am speaking in Church this Sunday, so I reckon I will work on my talk. It i9s based on Matthew 24:13, Endure to the end. Any thoughts from anyone will be appreciated.

Asa
July 20, 2018 - Msg 110246: Horribly sad day here in Southern Missouri. I dont know if you all have caught the news, but a Ride The Ducks boat in Branson, Missouri capsized and sank with 31 people aboard. Fourteen survived, seventeen died. The age range in death is one year old to seventy years. There are cars with no owners still sitting a Ride The Ducks parking lot. The boat sank down forty feet, then rolled another forty feet and landed on it's tires. Just Google Ride the Ducks Branson and all of it will come up.

Very heartbreaking and horrific day down here.

John Masters
July 20, 2018 - Msg 110247: By the way, this took place on Table Rock Lake very close to the dock of the Showboat Branson Belle.

John Masters
July 20, 2018 - Msg 110248: This also from the boat tragedy...there was an ELEVEN family members on that boat. TWO survived.

I can't even begin to rationally put that into thought.

John Masters
July 20, 2018 - Msg 110249: I heard about the boat accident in Missouri, John masters. How very sad and for one family to lose that many members-I cannot fathom the hurt and pain.Prayers going out for the survivors and loved ones of those who perished.

Boo, my prayers are with Cynthia and you too. You're a wonderful,caring friend- God bless you for being there for her.

My sister & family are flying from their home in Wyoming and will be here on Sunday to visit Mama. This was a planned vacation back home that has turned into much more. Mama has been looking forward to seeing them,especially her (only) grandson.That's pretty much all she's talked about for a month or more ,so if you would,please pray that she gets to have that visit with her loved ones. I went to see her today & she was sleeping & didn't even know I was there.I was told she didn't want to eat breakfast, asked to return to her room & has been telling her caregivers that she doesn't want to be alone,is scared,and she has also been "seeing people." I think we all understand what's happening here. We're running out of time with her. Please pray that she gets this chance to be with her loved ones. Lord,get us to Sunday! Thanks,friends.

*************
possum u.a.r.
July 20, 2018 - Msg 110250: Oh my Possum, It sure sounds like things are winding down for your Mom. I will certainly pray that she will be able to see the rest of her family, and pray for you as you ride this emotional roller coaster.

John what a tragic mishap in your neck of the woods. So very sad indeed. My prayers go out to all affected by it.

Asa
July 20, 2018 - Msg 110251: Thank you,Asa. You're such a caring friend. I appreciate you so.

possum again
July 20, 2018 - Msg 110252: Good evening, porch. Such a sad, sad day. What a tragedy there at Table Rock Lake. A terrible thing, and there are many broken hearts tonight because of it. It's so hard to understand, when things like this happen. That's when we have to just lean on faith, and trust God.

Possum, prayers continue for you and your mom and family. I pray that the ones she's waiting for will arrive in time. I believe you're interpreting the signs correctly. My dad said he saw my mother during the week before he passed, and told of having a conversation with her. A dream? Maybe. We'll never know. What we do know is this - if the family doesn't arrive in time, it won't really matter. She will never know it, because in God's timeline, they will be following her in "the twinkling of an eye", and besides, she'll be too busy renewing ties with the ones who preceded her, to notice. We cannot truly understand time and space and most of all, the meaning of eternity. No one can define eternity. I believe that when I rejoin Dale in heaven, there will be no sense of time lost. Wow. I'm getting in over my head here, but it doesn't matter. I don't have to understand it, because God does, and that's good enough for me. Courage, love. Courage and patience and peace. --Romeena
July 21, 2018 - Msg 110253: Good evening, porch family. I had not hear about the tragedy in Missouri..just heartbreaking. I will certainly be praying for all involved tonight.

Praying for you and your family Possum...I hope everything works out as it should. Love you.

Thank you for your kind words and prayers, Asa. I pray everything goes well with your church talk and with your back, also.

Love to All,
Boo
July 21, 2018 - Msg 110254: Hey Y'all- I've been at Mama's side all day,along with my daughter. Mama hasn't eaten in 2 days now & is doing nothing but sleeping.although it is more like being in a state of something else. I'm sure you nurses know what I'm talking about. She seems to hear us and will try to rouse up and open her eyes,but isn't talking,although she did say a few words earlier this morning. Anyway, the rest of the landed in Charlotte this afternoon & I told them to come ASAP instead of waiting until tomorrow. So,they did,along with my other sister,so Mama did have all of her loved ones with her earlier tonight. It wasn't exactly the visit we had hoped to have,but we WERE all there for her,so we made it. Thank you, Lord. Keep us in your prayers because this is extremely hard. Mama isn't in terrible pain,she is resting fairly comfortably,so that is a blessing to us. They took hotel rooms nearby just in case & we will all be there again tomorrow. I'll update when I can.
***********
possum u.a.r.
July 21, 2018 - Msg 110255: The rest of the FAMILY-sorry, I am totally drained.

possum again
July 22, 2018 - Msg 110256: HI ALL, I am back safe and sound from California.
Will read the archives and get back to ya-all soon.
MDC
July 22, 2018 - Msg 110257: Good Sabbath all, and glad you're back home MDC. Did you get asked to get off any Stars lawns? Hope you had fun buddy.

Possum, I am so happy your family got there and was able to see your Mom. I pray the day goes well for you all. Your description of her condition sounds exactly how my Dad was just before he passed. Prayers for you Pam. Bless your heart.

Boo, Thanks for the prayers. You are a treasure!

Well I reckon I best go put the finishing touches on my talk. My nerves get in the way of my delivery, so I'm not very good at this stuff. But I figure I will lean on the Lord and He will get me through it.

Prayers for all for a great Sabbath, and especially for Possum as she deals with her situation.

Asa
July 22, 2018 - Msg 110258: Thank you,Asa. Love you,friend.~Pam/ possum
July 22, 2018 - Msg 110259: Good morning, porch. Just stopped by to check on y'all, glad I did. Possum, hang in there, love. Lean on the Lord. Talk to your mom, even if it appears she's asleep. There is a firm medical opinion that hearing is the last sense to go, so talk to her. Let each family member have a moment to talk to her. She may or may not respond, but don't give up. If she hears you, and she probably does, it will be a tremendous comfort to her to know that she is surrounded by those whom she loves. I'm heading off to preaching in a few minutes, but know that I will be praying for you at this time.

Asa, I will ask the Lord to speak through you, as you address your congregation this morning, and also to give you relief from your back pain.

MDC, welcome home. Read and catch up, and we'll look forward to hearing more from you. Tell us all about your trip!

Blessings, friends. Have a lovely, restful Sabbath day. --Romeena
July 22, 2018 - Msg 110260: She hears us,Ro. We're certain of that. She's transitioning now-hospice nurse said next 24-48 hours/within a week's time. She's not suffering and is peaceful. Thank you for your prayers.I will update when I can.

possum again
July 23, 2018 - Msg 110261: HI again. I read the archives, and my dear Possum, my prayers are indeed going up for your mom and family. May the peace of Jesus fill you all.
As Asa stated, it sure sounds like the way my dad also passed in 2015, so I can indeed say I know what you are going thru. Hang in there dear one.
I enjoyed the reunion in Cal. Very small group this year, and I was not 'running' it, so i had time to just relax and enjoy the environs of Santa Barbara.
Tuesday is my abdominal MRI, and then I meet with the surgeon on Aug 2nd to see how he wants to proceed.
Good to be back.
APB for SPOT!!
More tomorrow.
Prayers,
MDC
July 23, 2018 - Msg 110262: With you in spirit, Possum, as you know. I can certainly sympathize, as can most of us here. It is a very difficult time but I have no doubt that Jesus is right there with you and will get you through. I'm praying he will do for you just what he did for me. May your mother's passing be as easy as peaceful as possible. You might find that you are unable to sleep and that is usually the case. Take little blocks of time to lie down and rest when you can and don't forget to drink something. You may have trouble eating but take sips of fluid as you can. Romeena's words are exactly right..One thing that helped me was doing little things to honor mom in her last days and hours. I covered her bed with a favorite quilt made by her Aunt, I set out pictures of her, kept the favorite book of my childhood (that she read to me countless times) nearby..it helped me cope for some reason. Love you, always.

Boo
July 23, 2018 - Msg 110263: I know you all have been praying for Sean and wanted to share something he posted on facebook last night:







Sean Guenter

12 hrs ·

...
So, I wanted to clarify something with everyone. God is doing a great work in my life, and I fully believe He is going to use me to glorify him. Back when I said I was gay, I was a little vague. Yes, I have s@xual feelings for men, however, I do not live a gay lifestyle. I dont date, I dont have s@x, or anything like that. I dont know why I was born this way, but I am believing that God still has a plan for me, and that He does not make mistakes. He created me to serve Him weather I'm gay, straight, red, or blue. I know in my heart that God loves me, and knows my heart, and that I want him to show me his will for my life. I'm seeking god's guidance for my life, and that he will once again use my voice to honor him. It's not my will, but his will be done. I'm doing, and will do whatever we it takes to honor my savior. My heart is pure, and I know God loves me, I am just putting this out here to get things straight. If you took the time to read this, thank you, and God bless.

Boo


July 23, 2018 - Msg 110264: With all the sad, deep dialogue lately I feel kinda ashamed to post about the GREAT time Maude & I had at the Meet-Up so I’ll share that a later date...
But that’s what we are here for, to life up those who are hurting. So prayers to Possum during her difficult time. And Boo and her family. And ALL those unspoken prayer requests too....We do for our own...Amen?

G-F
July 23, 2018 - Msg 110265: Amen GF. Glad you had a good time and are back home safe and sound and Wheeler bound.

Possum, I am happy to read that at least your Mom is not in pain and suffering. I know that is a blessing for you. Prayers continue.

Boo, what a touching post about Sean. What a great young man he is. You and Bruce should be very proud. Bless his heart.

Romeena, Sorry your teeth fix didn't work out. I hope the next ones are a better match.

Thanks for the prayers for my talk and my back. The talk went pretty good I think, although there were a couple of points I forgot to make, or more like I ran out of time before I could get to them. But I got a lot of compliments afterwards. Folks sure are kind.

Still home nursing the back. Much improved but I still get pretty sore if I am standing much. Tomorrow is a State holiday here, so I figured I'd wait until Wednesday and see how I am feeling then.

MDC, My goodness buddy, you have been probed and looked at from every angle possible it seems buddy. Good luck on the MRI.

Well I have been trying to watch TAGS on TV Land, but mercy sakes, it's frustrating. The amount of scenes they cut out is shameful. Glad I have all of then on DVD. So I'm not sure why I am watching them on TV Land. I am a real study.

Prayers for all for a great day.

Asa
July 23, 2018 - Msg 110266: Good morning, porch! Boo, since I very rarely visit Facebook, let me thank you for sharing Sean's post with us. That took courage, on your part, and especially on his. It reminded me of a nurse friend from years ago, whose son had come out as gay. She was devastated. This was in the early days of AIDS in America, and she was terrified for him, among other fears. Then he shared his heart with her. His feelings were much like Sean's. He told her he didn't understand it, but it was what it was. He also told her he had decided that celibacy would be his gift to God. To the best of my knowledge, he never broke that commitment. I also had a dear friend at church - same story. He didn't proclaim his feelings, and he didn't act upon them either. He simply served willingly in the church, added his beautiful voice to the choir, drove the bus or used his own car to pick up elderly and ailing folk who couldn't drive to church alone, drove people to the doctor, visited those in the hospital, served as a parking lot guard, was always seen in a repair or clean-up crew, and shared the love of Jesus with anyone at any time. He passed about three years ago, in his 60's, of cancer. His cheerful faith never wavered, and it was my privilege to be his home health nurse for a while. He was my friend.

I will state here that I do not understand the gay attraction. That's not an indictment, it's just a statement of fact. I don't understand how electricity works, either. We have all seen examples of gay people who have flaunted their lifestyle with offensive and disgusting displays - parades, etc. However, we have all seen straight people who have done the same thing - pornography, strip clubs, etc. There are pedophiles on both sides of the fence. What I'm saying is - I will not presume to judge. God did not appoint me to do that, that's His job. He knows a whole lot more about the whole question than I do, and therefore is in a much better position to do the judging. I will leave it up to Him. I know what He said about it, His word is clear in the Bible, but that is between Him and the individual. All He has asked me to do is to love others, share His word, be kind, and help those who need help, wherever I can. That's a full time job. I don't have time to run around judging and chastising others for things I don't understand.

G-F, you put it very neatly, in just a few words. That’s what we are here for, to lift up those who are hurting. Blessings, friends. --Romeena