January 18, 2003 - Msg 11546: Uh, coach Asa, what's a shortstop do?
(I'm serious, I don't know. Terrible isn't it?)
-Sterling Holobyte
Thanks for the advice Boo! Does it have to be a cup? I don't have too many of those. I do have a coffee mug I could use. Would that work?
January 18, 2003 - Msg 11547: Shortstops catch the runaway balls between 2nd and 3rd base, but they play a little farther back than those two basemen. I think a coffee mug would be okay but it shouldn't be too flashy. Don't mind me - I'll be the one with the umbrella in the outfield.
Who is watching the Grand Ol' Opry tonite? Andy is on!

homemaker
January 18, 2003 - Msg 11548: Andy was great on the Opry, if you missed it the first time around, I think they will show it again later tonight, they usually do.
*Mavis
January 18, 2003 - Msg 11549: Briscoe you are now on the Cutlass so have fun!
*Mavis
January 18, 2003 - Msg 11550: Good evening porch.. it was a cold -4 degrees on my porch this morning. Having a heat wave now.. up to 22 degrees! I missed Andy on the Opry between workin and practice I was just plum tuckered out. But I think we done good for our first practice, until Asa and Hazel got into a discussion about Whos on first.. Did they ever get it straightened out? Yall take care and get some rest. OK coach Asa.. whens the next practice? I'm all ready to go, night porch yall stay warm--Salty Dog
January 18, 2003 - Msg 11551: A coffee mug, Sterling?! I hardly think so. If it gets broken it could really hurt you (not to mention people might point and stare).

Boo
January 19, 2003 - Msg 11552: I attended my first "senior" wedding yesterday. My mother-in-law got married at age 70. They had the cermony in the retirement complex where they both live. Right before the cermony was to begin, a water pipe broke and the halls started to flood but luckily the water didn't get too far. We were without water for hours, though, which made clean-up very difficult! All in all everything went well and the bride and groom were very happy.

I am up bright and early. would like to have slept in but baby girl had different ideas. I have to help in the nursery at church this morning so I needed to get up anyway.

I dreamt about Big Maude last night. She had me in a head lock out in center field and Sterling came running over and hit her in the head with a big coffee mug!

Gotta goooo

Boo
January 19, 2003 - Msg 11553: How come I can't spell "ceremony" this morning?

Boo
January 19, 2003 - Msg 11554: Mornin' Y'all! I think practice went pretty good yesterday,except for one thing... we gotta get Boo to quit holding the bat like Aunt Bee does!
Yep,a coffee cup could be a health hazard ,Sterling.Maybe somebody has some Tupperware you could use instead-that stuff is unbreakable,so it might be a lot safer.Just a matter of getting it to stay on under your uniformSomebody might need to bring a roll of duck tape too!
Y'all have a good day! Sure hope it warms up some here-brrrrrr!
*****SMILES*****
possum under a rock
January 19, 2003 - Msg 11555: Hello all! Hey Mavis, Got your e-mail and thanks. Stay warm all!

Briscoe Darling Jr.
January 19, 2003 - Msg 11556: Thanks for the info, Homemaker! At least now I know what I'm supposed to be doing out there on the field. And I think you're right about the coffee mug - not too flashy, I wouldn't want to attract any attention to myself.
-Sterling Holobyte

January 19, 2003 - Msg 11557: Sterling, what if the coffee mug was purple with yellow acorns on it? Fancy!

~ Mrs. Wiley

January 19, 2003 - Msg 11558: I think Big Lots has some nice plastic mugs - that way if it was to break - you wouldn't be hurt too bad!
Andy was fun on the Opry and it was nice that he got a standing ovation - a couple of times. It seemed that he really enjoyed himself.

homemaker
January 19, 2003 - Msg 11559: Where is ever'body at today, froze up somewheres?
January 19, 2003 - Msg 11560: Well, Msg 11559, I'm still looking for some Tupperware, as per Possum's suggestion. I don't know where anyone else is.
-Sterling Holobyte
January 19, 2003 - Msg 11561: Howdy, folks. Mary Wiggins, I got that eye-poppin' brochure yesterday. Now I've got to make a decision. Will definitely be wanting a sample of your husband's beautiful work. Thanks for sending the brochure.

The Plum got a good combing-out this evening. She had little tangles where her backpack had rubbed, and the burrs and grass clippings from the practice field got all in that long hair on her feet and legs, she was just a mess! She's beautiful again, though, not a hair out of place. Said she had fun at practice.

Weather here on the North Texas end of the porch was beautiful today. Cool, but pretty. Supposed to get into the 60's tomorrow, and be clear and sunny. We'll get some more cold stuff, though, right through February and into March. We can be in the 70's one day, and have ice on the ground the next. That's Texas!

Have a great Mayberry week, folks. Sugarplum says hey! --Romeena
January 20, 2003 - Msg 11562: Catcher, huh? I think I can do that. I can catch a ball. But, don't expect me to understand all them fancy rules about force outs and such. Hope everyone had a good sabbath. Our family watched Pollyanna this weekend. Great movie. We laugh about our preacher being somewhat like the preacher in the movie. Anybody seen it? "Death comes unexpectedly!"
Charlotte Tucker
January 20, 2003 - Msg 11563: LD, your message 11541 sounded more like Howard Sprague than LD! Ask mother! Go on!
CT
January 20, 2003 - Msg 11564: We saw Tom Selleck's movie last nite - Monte Walsh - just loved it! He still is quite a spectacle for the eyes.

Just a lazy weekend that way too fast!

homemaker

January 20, 2003 - Msg 11565: CT. When we were kids Mother used to take a nap on Sunday after Church and the big Sunday dinner. (She was wore out). We would ask her if we could go somewhere and she would always say uh-huh. So we always waited until she went to sleep before asking her anything. She was much more agreeable asleep. We still do the same thing, as she is asleep almost all the time. She's a real doll baby to all of us. Most people have a hard time accepting alzheimers disease, but my family just roll with the punches and make the most of it.
Our philosophy in life is..."When life hands you a lemon, make lemonade".
LD
January 20, 2003 - Msg 11566: YO! I need a name for a new male puppy, and would like something from TAGS, but something a little more obscure than Opie, Barnie, etc. Any suggestions? Thanks and Goober says hey.
January 20, 2003 - Msg 11567: " Goober... it's an American name."
January 20, 2003 - Msg 11568: PRAYER REQUEST, PLEASE: As I write this post, one of my daughters is having a very important
medical test being done. Please pray for her with me. Lord, have mercy upon my daughter who is so young. I ask that you spare her any
life-threatening illness and that she can dedicate her life to Your service.

Naturally, being her mom, I want no harm to come to her but, I know I must place her in His loving Hands.... and I feel very confident that this will turn out good. Nevertheless, it's difficult but, knowing you will be praying with me comforts me and helps me to believe it even more.

I know I haven't been posting much and I hope you all understand it's been one thing and then another it seems... gettin kinda hard on the ole spirit but, like I said I place us firmly in His Hands and have much faith after all He has done for us already. I will get back here regularly as soon as I can. I appreciate your friendship even when I am having too much to allow me to chat with you all... I miss you all.... God bless, ~Clara~


January 20, 2003 - Msg 11569: Yep homemaker, watched the show myself and I must say that he is a still a bud twanger if ever I saw one.

"Aw Pa, cain't I just look at the purty man?"

fun girl
January 20, 2003 - Msg 11570: Clara,
Will keep you and your daughter in my prayers. Get a good nights sleep!
LD
January 20, 2003 - Msg 11571: Puppy name for Msg. 11566 - Why not call you puppy TAGS?
LD
January 20, 2003 - Msg 11572: Dear Clara, my thoughts and my prayers are with you and your daughter. It is hard not to be afraid but like you said, we must put all things in God's hands and trust in His goodness.

Ditto for Tom Selleck. He is a purty man, for sure but I don't let my mind wander. Have to stay faithful to my chubby, bald husband (he is still a hunk to me).

Hey, coach Asa, when's the next practice?

Boo
January 20, 2003 - Msg 11573: Don't worry about not posting, Clara. You and your daughter are with us in our thoughts and prayers, I'm sure everyone here would agree.

LD, that is a great idea for a puppy's name! I wish I'd have thought of that!

-Sterling Holobyte
January 20, 2003 - Msg 11574: Celebrating Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
This is the Old Miss Ellie who hasn't posted for a while.
I had to share this story. Last week my husband was a pallbearer for his co-worker.
Marvin was a very dark black man. In his obituary it said "Marvin had a legacy. He passes his legacy onto his wife, children, mother and brother."
Marvin never looked at skin color. In his eyes everyone was the same. Just as God looks at the heart, not the skin color. I think this is what Martin Luther King Jr wanted people to do. I think this is what Marvin wanted everyone to do.
I know Marvin in his Heaven.
God bless you all, and Clara, may God touch your daughter.
you may want to look into Floyd (Allan's) WBMUTBB Praises and Prayers on yahoo.com.
Good place to place prayer requests and praises.
Miss Ellie
January 21, 2003 - Msg 11575: Prayers,Clara. Well said,Miss Ellie. Love to all.
Have a good Tuesday!
*****SMILES*****
possum under a rock
January 21, 2003 - Msg 11576: Mornin DEARS. Prayers for you and your daughter Clara!

~ Mrs. Wiley
Gomer: "Could be an ingrown tonail. Or maybe he just got his hair cut and has some little hairs tickling him on the neck. Yep. Ingrown tonail."

January 21, 2003 - Msg 11577: That's ToEnail. sheesh.
January 21, 2003 - Msg 11578: Good morning, Porchsters! I have missed you not posting, Clara. Sorry to hear that your daughter may be having medical problems. Just remember: There is hope for the hopeless. Nothing is impossible for God. We had a guy who was given 4-5 months to live with various cancers throughout his organs last May speak to us at church on Sunday. He is an example of a miracle. After much prayer and study of the Word, he was led to a doctor who performed a surgery on him that removed huge percentages of his stomach, liver, and gallbladder, and he is is cancer free today! Praise the Lord! But trials continue for others...just found out of two others--one with some rare form of blood cancer and another with brain and liver cancer this weekend. Cancer is such a horrible disease. I pray it will be eradicated. Although, God sure can change and mold folks through the trials of it I guess. “His ways are not our ways.” My own personal trials are getting worked out through much prayer and faith. Thank you all for listening. I hope you all have a blessed day! Asa, when's practice?
January 21, 2003 - Msg 11579: Oops! That post was from me...
Charlotte Tucker
January 21, 2003 - Msg 11580: Hello all! Have a Mayberry Day!

Briscoe Darling Jr.
January 21, 2003 - Msg 11581: Mornin'! Just checking in to say "Hey". Sould be a busy day with the young'uns. My son just informed me from the other room that baby girl has "poopy". Better go....

Boo
January 21, 2003 - Msg 11582: Thank each and everyone of you precious people for your prayers and kindness. Asa, thanks for the inspiring story... I believe in miracles. Nice of you all to keep me in your thoughts, too. Things being kinda tense around here, I could use a little joyful juggin, Briscoe. How about it? I brought along some apple-raisin muffins for my faithful friends... help yourselves! Someone bring the coffee? Ahhh, how nice it is to sit back on this porch under a warm, heavy afghan with such good and kind company and enjoy a nice treat. God bless you all, ~Clara~
January 21, 2003 - Msg 11583: Does that make you "Boo-poopy"? ~ Mrs. Wiley
January 21, 2003 - Msg 11584: Evenin', everybody! Prayers for your daughter, Clara. Most of us can handle what life throws at us, but when one of our kids is threatened, well, that's a different story! Please keep us informed.

Miss Ellie, it's good to hear from you. Don't be such a stranger. Charlotte Tucker, I'm glad things are improving. Hang in there.

LD, I think "TAGS" is just a super name for a puppy. I also liked that earlier suggestion, which I assume was for a different puppy. Someone suggested "Ernest T." I could just see that scruffy little terrier answering to "Ernie". Cute names.

I slept all day, expecting to go to work tonight, and was called at 5:30 and offered the night off. I took it! Planning to empty my front entry closet, throw away about 90% of its contents, and build some wire shelves in there to maximize the space. Got my trusty drill and all the hardware I need, so off I go. I hear Mr. Wheeler is holed up over at Bee's, so guess I can't count on him coming by to help. That's okay, he's usually not much help anyway, and the Plum and I can handle it.

Have a great evening, friends. Sugarplum says hey! --Romeena
January 21, 2003 - Msg 11585: Evenin' Porch,
I was talking to my granddaughter this evening and told her about you "Porchies". When I told her I am known as LD, she said she didn't know I had a learning disability. (lol). I guess I have been able to hide it pretty well, huh? Hey, I made Monkey Bread today, would you like to try some?
LD
January 21, 2003 - Msg 11586: Evening porch. Sorry about being gone. My puter crashed on me Saturday. Got it working finally but I don't know how long. Hope everyone is well. Prayers for your Daughter Clara. Hope she is OK.
That Romeena has turned into a shelf hanging monster lately. Bet she is getting good at it.
Practice again on Saturday so be ready. Gonna work you hard this week.
Well, gotta try and answer some e-mails so bless you all.

Asa
January 21, 2003 - Msg 11587: Good day today! Made it to Wal-Mart, Radio Shack, Wendys, the library, and the post office. God is good. I have been a hunting a special Bible verse since Charlotte has had the blues. I am sure that all you Bible scolars could help me. It goes something like this.

"I know the plans I have for you, says the LORD, plans for good and not evil. Plans for hope and for a future." Where can I read that in it's entirety? Straight from the good book you might say? I think it's in Jeremiah.
fun girl

Briscoe--Do ya know "Why don't ya haul off and love me one more time?" That 'un makes me cry.

"Look down, look down, that lonesome road, before you travel on." That Rafe gives me goosebumps.
January 22, 2003 - Msg 11588: Mornin' Y'all! Hope there's some Monkey bread left,LD-that is some good stuff! I'll make coffee to go along with it.
Hey,can y'all believe the Charleston weatherman said the "S" word? Yep,we might have a bit of snow tonight into tomorrow! We get all keyed up over that white stuff down here-don't see much of it.Even close the schools if a flake or two falls.I want a snow day!!! Nevermind that I just missed 4 days with strep throat-I wanna snow day!!! So all y'all Northerners & Midwesterners go outside and fan some of that cold SNOW weather down here!
Asa,hope that computer don't crash on ya again-how else we gonna get our game plan from our coach?
Y'all have a good day! Think SNOW for possum's rock! P.S. Happy... you getting snow in Myrtle Beach? Looks like it,from the weather reports.

*****SMILES*****
possum under a rock
possum under a rock
January 22, 2003 - Msg 11589: Looks like I chewed my cabbage twice- sorry about the double possum!
**********
possum again
January 22, 2003 - Msg 11590: Two possum's for the price of one. Thought I was going crazy there for a minute.
Where did Happy get off to? Hope she didn't leave us.
I wanna throw a little trivia your way. What year was the Greendale City office erected?

Asa
January 22, 2003 - Msg 11591: Was it 1938? I'm just guessing. I reckon I'll have to watch that one again and pay more attention to the date.
- Hazel

Otis Campbell, where did you get the liquor? Where did you get the liquor?
January 22, 2003 - Msg 11592: Why, Asa, I can't believe you didn't just grab your handy drill and go right over there and help Romeena with her shelves! Fun girl, I'm so glad to hear that you had the energy to do all that runnin' yesterday. Don't get too worn out now. Thank you for the verse. We have been quoting that one a lot already! "For I know the plans I have for you...plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Is that the one you had in mind, fun girl? Yep, it's a good 'un. Should give everybody a brighter outlook on the day, shouldn't it? Morning, Hazel and possum.
Charlotte Tucker
January 22, 2003 - Msg 11593: Morning all!
I hope everyone is doing well today. Things are quiet in my neck of the woods,(or end of the porch!) Hubby and I will be in Charleston in a couple weeks for a big wildlife art show, so things are sure to get real busy! I am getting kind of excited about it. We will be driving down there with our '89 Chevy van loaded with original artwork and some framed prints so you all can pray for a safe trip and that our van can hold up to the effort and we can too!

I think Asa's puter broke down 'cause he was working us all so hard. It was just a practice Asa!! I don't think we should have to run 1/20th of a mile till halfway through the season, you are just working us WAY too hard!

Glad to see you posting Clara, I hope all is going well with your daughter. You know you have all our prayers and thoughts with you.

Thanks for the Monkey Bread, (what is it?) and the coffee L.D. and Possum, it really hit the spot.

Y'all have a great day now, y'hear!!
Mary Wiggins

January 22, 2003 - Msg 11594: Morning porch! Mary that aint nothin compared to what Asa made us do last year.. he even tried to take away our pepsi and Mt Dew.. but it didn't work. He's a good coach though. Yall have a good day, I'm off to work a lil while. Later--Salty Dog
January 22, 2003 - Msg 11595: Sorry Possum, the most I could fan down to your area would be cold air. I can't believe we don't have any snow here yet! We better get some soon, the road crews are getting lazy, I just saw some of them the other day selling salted popcorn out of the back of their truck!
-Sterling Holobyte
January 22, 2003 - Msg 11596: Where is it you're at, Sterling? Here in Illinois today it is blustery and COLD! 14° when I went out for lunch at 11:00. Supposed to be colder tonight. I'm ready to move to Florida! I love Florida by the way. I have two aunts, an uncle, and my dad and stepmom all down there. I'd love to go there too, but kids don't want to move anywhere of course. Oh, about my lunch. We went to a quaint little restaurant named the Dusty Farmer in a town of about 100 people. Hee Haw flashback: What's for supper, Grandpa? I had cube steak, mashed taters and gravy, creamed peas, a roll and raisin cream pie for dessert. The pie was outta this world! Better get off the 'puter and do something constructive.
Charlotte Tucker
January 22, 2003 - Msg 11597: I'm in Central Wisconsin, Charlotte. We're usually up to our necks in snow by now. I want to take my little girl out to play in the snow but there isn't any! And frozen dirt isn't much fun to play in. It might taste good, but....

Charlotte, why don't you move down to Florida? It sounds like you have a lot of family there. Just tell your kids that they have to start paying your heating bill, that will get them wanting to move.
That supper sure sounds good, Charlotte!
-Sterling Holobyte
January 22, 2003 - Msg 11598: Hey, Sterling, I read the other day that the state motto of Wisconsin is,"Come to Wisconsin and cut the cheese!". Is that true?

Boo
January 22, 2003 - Msg 11599: I read some others, too, let me see if I can remember a few:

Texas-"Si, habla espanol"
Michigan-"The first line of defense against Canada."
Ohio-"At least we're not Michigan."
Florida-"Ask us about our grabdkids."
Montana-"Home of the big, blue sky, the una bomber, and not much else."
New York-"You have the right to remain silent..."
South Carolina-"Closer than North Carolina."
New Mexico-"Lizards make good pets."
Oklahoma-"Just like the movie, except no singing."
Idaho-"We're more than just potatoes. Well, not really, but them potatoes sure are good!"

That's all I can remember.

Boo
January 22, 2003 - Msg 11600: That was supposed to read, "grandkids"

Boo
January 22, 2003 - Msg 11601: HAHAHA Boo! That'n was funny! ~ Mrs. Wiley

Hey to every ol' body!

January 22, 2003 - Msg 11602: We really are more than just potatoes!
- Hazel
January 22, 2003 - Msg 11603: Actually Boo, I think the new motto is "Come to Wisconsin. Signed, Mosquitoes."
And they don't cut the cheese around here anymore, it's all shredded now. Ouch!
-Sterling Holobyte
January 22, 2003 - Msg 11604: Evening porch. Sorry to hear about all that cold y'all are having back east. Just been as nice as can be here. Got close to 50 today. Sun is shining. Got me with spring fever for sure. I bet the taters in Idaho are growing even. Huh Hazel? LOL
No one but Hazel guessed at my trivia. The year was 1902.
OK, I'm gonna say this once and only once. Give me some sugar... give me some good. LOL

Asa
January 22, 2003 - Msg 11605: Well the temp tonight are supposed to get to 20 BELOW. As for me, I got the ironing board set up and the electric blanket plugged in and toasty warm.
Night ya'll
fun girl
January 22, 2003 - Msg 11606: That is supposed to be "is supposed." As in "I is an English major in school. teee heee I just crack myself up.
fun girl
January 22, 2003 - Msg 11607: Hey Charlotte, come on down to Florida, we would love to have you. Maybe your kids would let you be a snowbird every winter. Mary, you never ate Monkey Bread before? It is regular home made bread, make small balls of the dough and roll it in butter and cinnamon, place in a greased loaf pan and sprinkle raisens and nuts in and around the nuts. Let rise and bake, Then hide it if you want some for yourself. (you can use frozen dough if you want). It was in the upper 60's here in Fl. today. Nice balmy day.....
LD
January 23, 2003 - Msg 11608: Mary, I make my monkey bread the easy way. First I melt the butter, then I mix sugar and cinnamon together in a bowl (now here is the easy part) I get the canned biscuits out of the refrigerator and use those instead of homemade bread dough. I pinch of peices of the biscuit dough and roll into balls, dip in butter and roll in the sugar and cinnamon, then I layer them in a tube or bundt pan. Raisins sound great, but I never used them. I like to use chopped pecans, too. MMMMMMM good!

Where do you live, fun Girl! In Alaska? Wow! While I was in Colorado it got to 13 degrees and I thought I would die. I have never experienced below zero temps in my life. It is supposed to be in the thirties here in S. Texas tonight which is unusually cold for us.

Hey, LD, you said to, "..sprinkle raisins and nuts in and around the nuts." Do you mean we should sprinkle raisins and nuts in and around our family members, perhaps? heehee

Love Ya'll!

Boo (Brrrrrr!)
January 23, 2003 - Msg 11609: "I didn't shred the cheese. It was the dog!"

(that was for you Sterling)

Boo
January 23, 2003 - Msg 11610: No snow yet,but it's coming.Guess we'll have school today-bummer.Possum wants SNOW!
*****SMILES*****
possum under a rock
January 23, 2003 - Msg 11611: Boo....I forgot to include the sugar in the above message. Yes I goofed on the sentence about sprinkling nuts and raisen around the nuts....I am truely LD. (learning disabled)
LD
January 23, 2003 - Msg 11612: Well I like a few egg whites in my monkey bread. Makes them fluffier.
Hope it warms up some for you folks back east. We usually get bitter cold this time of year but it ain't been around this year.
Guess no one's gonna give me some sugar. (sigh)

Asa
January 23, 2003 - Msg 11613: Br-r-r-r-r! Cold here on the porch today. -4 by our car thermometer! LD and Boo, you're making my mouth water with talk of that monkey bread! Mmm! Everybody keep warm now, ya hear?
Charlotte Tucker
January 23, 2003 - Msg 11614: Poor Asa,
Here's some sugar, right on your cheek! Did you all see last night's episode of TAGS? Another classic, dear old Barney is so..... Barney!

Thanks for all the explanations of Monkey Bread. Sounds a bit like a cinnamon roll to me! But with raisins and nuts in it! (Sounds delish!)

I got a mess of stuff to do, so I better get a move-on!

Keeping the rest of the nation safe from Canada,
it's Mary Wiggins signing off in Michigan!

January 23, 2003 - Msg 11615: Awwwwww Thanks Mary. Nothing like a little sugar to start the day right I say. I saw the episode last night. You talking about the one with Jeff Pruitt? I love his line "to the winner belongs the spoils baby" then plants a big old sugar kiss on Thel. What a funny feller.

Asa
January 23, 2003 - Msg 11616: Hello all and Brr! It's 12 here this morning, and will get worse. 4 inches of snow, to go along with the cold. Hey Fun Girl, Yep, I know, "Why don't ya haul off and love me one more time?" Jus hang on ta' somethin'. Here we go.

Briscoe Darling Jr.
January 23, 2003 - Msg 11617: I missed the TAGS episode last night. Was it the one where Andy and Barney enter the room full of single women and Barney says, "If you threw a bird in this room, everyone in it would point?"-or something like that.

I want monkey bread but got on the scales and I gained 6 pounds over the holidays! Horrors. Ate my Smart Start cereal this morning with a cup of coffee. Yuck. Why wasn't I born eternally thin? What is so humiliating is I have to go to the dr every four months and I never lose any weight. I think permanent weight loss must be the hardest thing I ever tried to do. Any suggestions? The doc wants me to exercise but it's hard with the kids. I am thinking about joining a health club. Ok, I vented enough, but with a cholesterol of 240 (on Lipitor) I need to find the motivation to do something. Heeeelp!

LD, you aren't learning disabled (did I spell that right? ha) you just made a little mistake, Honey. I have to tell you LD, I think you fit right in so good here on the porch. It seems like you've been here all along. Now, do you have time to share a cup of coffee (cream, no sugar)and visit?

Did anyone see the PBS special last night about Jasper, Texas? Remember that is where those white guys drug the black man behind the truck until he was dead. It was so horrible. I was embarrased by the folks in that town. Such ignorance and racism. I just hated that it happened in Texas. If anyone is interested, you can go to pbs.org and read more about the documentary. Hey, all you porch philosophers, any insight on how people can be so cruel to another human being? What is this evil that lurks in the hearts of some men? I grew up in a small town in the South but we had respect for everyone. Racism didn't exist in my home. We would have been in big trouble for saying words like Ni---r. My dad lived in Louisianna as a kid and he saw black boys lynched. He remembers as a child seeing a young black man tied to the back of a car and drug around the city courthouse. When he was 14, school was let out to attend the trial of a white man who shot a black man in cold blood and was aquitted. He also remembers signs in town that read, "Nig---, don't let the sun go down on you!". So, my dad hated what he witnessed and made sure we knew the truth about all men being equal. Thank God for the education Dad gave me.

Didn't mean to go on so...later, friends.

Boo

January 23, 2003 - Msg 11618: Afternoon porch.. it was cold on my porch this morning. 16 degrees and supposed to be colder than that in the morning. Wind gusts up to 60 mph. Hope you all are staying warm today. We got a couple inches of snow. Are we still having pracitce Saturday Asa? Gonna be a might cold ya know. You all take care I'm gonna go find some lunch any one for a sammich? Come on over--Salty Dog
January 23, 2003 - Msg 11619: You hit the nail right on the head Boo, when you said "We would have been in big trouble for saying words like Ni---r."
A lot of kids nowadays don't get into big trouble and that's the problem! They've been taught by apathetic parents, the media, and our own Supreme Court system that they don't have to pay the consequences for any bad thing they might do.
Teacher's can't even fail students for cheating without the fear of a lawsuit against them, what does that teach the students?
The evil you mention exists in organizations like the ultra-liberal ACLU, whose main purpose for existence, I'm convinced, is to destroy the traditional values of America and make everything that's perverted ok and mainstream. Watch them closely, the people and causes they support and the lawsuits they start, and you will see what I mean.

Boo, all I can say about losing weight is exercise, exercise, exercise!! And stay away from McDonalds. I personally wouldn't go to a health club because I hate paying people for something I can do myself, but I'm sure they would help with motivation. I bought myself and baby Kai a little trailer that attaches to my bike so I can take her on bike rides, which I love to do! Of course in winter it's a little hard to get out on a bike, but you're down in Texas where it's warmer, Boo. You know, they also make those bike trailers for two and three kids, hint, hint! That's a little more weight in the back but it would be a good workout! Especially if you like to get outside like I do.

-Sterling Holobyte


January 23, 2003 - Msg 11620: Thanks, Sterling, I have a bike but never use it. I have to get over feeling guilty when I ask my husband to watch the kids while I get out and exercise. It's stupid, I know because I work all day the same as he does but I feel guilty about leaving him with the kids at the end of the day. I like to walk with my sister in the evening but it started to be a problem because hubbie didn't want to watch the kids that much. Sooo I will try the health club nearby because I have a neighbor across the street who said she would watch the kids while I went and then I would watch her little boy while she went. We'll see what happens.

Boo
January 23, 2003 - Msg 11621: Howdy, everyone! Boo, like you, I was brought up in a home that didn't teach or practice prejudice. I don't know the answers any better than anyone else, but I do have a theory. It seems to me that there are a lot of people who have so little self-esteem, and find so little to be proud of in themselves, that the only way they can feel better is to convince themselves that someone else is truly worthless, thereby making their own self valuable by comparison. Does that make any sense? Racism exists all over the world, in one form or another. If there aren't any other "races" around, then those pitiful people who need to feel "better" than someone else will find another criteria. In undeveloped Africa, one tribe hates another, for no apparent reason. I read of one terrible incident where one tribe quietly surrounded a building where members of another tribe were gathered, and set the building on fire, around the whole perimeter. No one inside the building survived. Our own Native Americans practiced prejudice, with terrible wars between tribes. In Ireland, where just about everyone is white, they have drawn the lines of division between religious persuasions. Here in America, we've drawn it between colors. Call it prejudice, racism, supremacy, whatever you choose. It boils down to hatred, pure and simple. Hatred is generally blind, based on fear that comes from lack of understanding. Of course, there are always a few radical individuals on both sides, ready to add fuel to the fire. Those monsters in Jasper are a good example. I, too, am ashamed that such an evil thing could have happened in my home state. I think it takes a lot of character for the black people in Jasper to refrain from staging a lynching of their own.

Somewhere, somehow, there has to come a time when we say, "Enough, already!" and let it stop there, but I don't know if we'll ever reach that point on our own. When our Lord comes again, it will indeed be "enough, already", and suddenly all color and creed and nationality will fade away, and those of us who belong to him will go to be with him forever, in equal standing, regardless of our differences here on earth. As for those who have committed the atrocities we've all heard of, I'm glad that it's up to God to decide what becomes of them, because they'd be in a world of hurt if it was up to us, I'm afraid.

Well, guess I'll step away from the pulpit now! Where on earth did all that come from???

Sugarplum says hey! --Romeena

January 23, 2003 - Msg 11622: Right on, Sterling! In my opinion, the ACLU is one of the worst things to hit America since polio, and it needs to be disbanded. It's great in theory - you know, protect the rights of the individual and all - but in practice it just doesn't work. Sorta like Communism! It sounds good, but doesn't work either. Both subvert the rights of many in order to "protect" the rights of a few. A person can rob, maim and murder, but if some excited, distracted police officer fails to read him his "rights" (as if the jerk didn't already know what they are), then chances are the criminal will go free. Also, better make sure the rights are read in his language, no matter how obscure it may be. It's nonsense, we all know it, but it seems like no one knows how to do anything about it.

Well, there I go again. Sorry. --Romeena


P.S. "read in his language! That's another thing that burns my grits. This is the USA! Come and live here and enjoy all the perks and freedoms if you wish, but for cryin' out loud, learn to speak the language!!!
January 23, 2003 - Msg 11623: You go, Romeena!... and Sterling, too. I am firmly opposed to anything that divides or favors us by race because in my opinion, that is exactly what racism is! Now, lots of folks would say "Well that's easy for you to say, you've had it easy, no racism directed toward you, all the comforts of a WASP home so you don't know what it's like for these poor non-white folk..." Well, that's where'd they'd be wrong. I am not white and I grew up in a low-income housing project on the bad end of town at a time when when dolls, movie stars, etc. were only white and mostly blonde at that! Even the school books in a school where no one was blonde, pictured only blonde, blue-eyed kids! I was even advised that I would have trouble in certain professions as a minority. Sure, there was the feeling that somehow it was preferable to be white and there was racial preferences and even bigotry... there probably will always be to some extent.

You know what I say to all that? That I was underpriviledged? mistreated? unable to get a job, get an education, make something of myself because of my race? No! I say, "Thank you, America for allowing my father and my grandparents to immigrate to the greatest country on earth. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to overcome obstacles merely by believing that I could." My life and my children's lives are better because of the ideals that has guided this country since its founding. Liberal-minded groups patronize minorities insisting we don't have the ability to overcome obstacles.. that is blatant racism and I want none of it. They insult me and all minorities with their pandering, condescending beliefs.

BTW, Romeena, my grandmother was so intent on learning English that she only allowed her children to speak English to her... that's how she learned English! And in my opinion, NO ONE should have the right to insist they be spoken to in any language other than English.

In my family, (3rd generation born), ALL my cousins have gone to college, all are in the upper income bracket, and all have been integrated successfully into "white" society. That this can't be done without government or special interest group interference is balderdash! All we need is the SAME rights, protections, and opportunities as anyone else and if we have just the desire and perseverance to succeed, we will!

Boy, you guys lit my fuse with that one! I am just livid when the liberals in Congress spend millions of dollars to make things "fairer" for us minorities... what condescending nincompoops! Just abide by the laws we already have and stop treating us like children! Sorry... I almost can't stop when I get started on this one!

~Clara~
January 23, 2003 - Msg 11624: PS... I was off on such a tirade that I forgot to thank you good wonderful people for all your prayers... how could I be so thoughtless? THANK YOU! and I will give you an update as soon as I know the results... ~Clara~
January 23, 2003 - Msg 11625: Afternoon Y'all. Well,we went to school,only to be dismissed at 11am.What a madhouse,with parents coming to pick up the kids,trying to cram in lunch,etc.Should've never gone in the first place.Anybody a fan of the late comedic columnist Lewis Grizzard? As he would say," I've got the feeling some people are educated far beyond their intelligence." That pretty much sums up our administrators at the school district office! Hope they cancel school for tomorrow,because all this rain/snow (yeah,we got some SNOW!) will freeze tonight with low temps of 10 degrees.Those school buses don't need to be on the roads (black ice) and kids don't need to be standing out on the side of the road (no shelters) waiting in that dangerous cold. Ok,I'm clmbing down off my soapbox now!
Boo,my monkey bread is like your version,but everyone's sounds delish! And to chime in on racism & the "N" word-my mom was the school nurse in this primarily black school district for 31 years.Wish I would've said the "N" word-would've been in for a whippin'! All but 2 of my students are black and I'm the only white adult in the class.Never fazes me-I love them all and vice-versa.We're all God's children and one race-the HUMAN race. Enough said.
Stay safe & warm ,porchsters! Love to all!
*****SMILES*****
possum under a snowy rock
January 23, 2003 - Msg 11626: Hey-did somebody shoot my " I" out ? I meant climbing,not clming! Ha Ha

**********
possum again
January 23, 2003 - Msg 11627: wow, Clara, what you said was amazing. You really made me think. You sound like an wise and strong woman and I'm glad to get to know you.

Romeena and Sterling, I loved reading your opinions, too. We have some smart cookies here on the porch. I am really glad I got ya'll on your soap boxes!

Possum, God bless you for loving all of God's children!

Boo
January 23, 2003 - Msg 11628: Whoa! That was some very interesting reading! Here in Michigan there is some trouble with The University Of Michigan and a law suit about quotas there. When I was younger, (20's) I thought quotas were a terrible thing. I couldn't understand how it was more fair to let a minority get in a job or college or whatever, even if they were less qualified than some other applicant. My husband and I had a very heated discussion about this once and he pointed out to me that some minorities face an uphill battle because the quality of education available to them might not be of the same standard as non-minorities. I really hadn't thought about it in that way. I had to agree that there was sometimes an unfair edge a white student might have. But it seemed to me the better answer was to make sure the quality of education available to every student should be of the highest level. That we should try to level the playing field at the beginning of the game and not once teams had been picked, coaches had started coaching, etc.
I have encountered some racism in my life, and I am always astounded by it. We had a young black man come to my church years ago when my 21 year old daughter was probably about 6. He was a guest speaker there, and he talked about racism. I listened to him and I smugly thought, I would never be that way, I would never think those things or do those things. I am a very open-minded person, and I treat every one equal. Then this young man said, "What would you do if your daughter came home and told you she was planning to marry a black man?" I was totally taken aback because I had to admit I didn't like that thought. I prayed about it and asked God to help me not to harbor any predjudices towards any one. Well, today my daughter is still not married, but if she comes home one day and tells me she has plans to marry some young man, I can honestly say my only concerns will be does he love her, does he love God, and does he have a good job? The last part seems a little funny, but I think I will know if he is a responsible person by that. I do want to thank God publicly, because only He can do things like that, change the heart of a person. Sometimes we don't even know we need a change, but He can take care of that too!

I guess I will be signing off for now, I hope every one has a great afternoon!
Mary Wiggins
January 23, 2003 - Msg 11629: WOOOOO...WEEEEE. Some good talking going on here. I like what I hear from all of ya. Just allow me to add my 2 cents worth. I really liked what you said Romeena about if it isn't race they will find something else to divide them. May I suggest the the master of evil is the force behind all the hatred and division. Seems to be the way things are headed in the twilight of our existence (IMHO). We see division trying to work itself in at every level, including our strongest institution, our families. Sad but a person needs to be ever so diligent in even keeping a family together in this day and age. If we lose the family, we are in BIG trouble (again IMHO).
And I agree so much with the need for folks to learn the language. Your just setting yourself back if you don't. The opportunities in this great nation are limitless with desire and ambition. And although not a racial minority, I am a first generation American. My parents came here from England in the early 50's with nothing more than a few dollars and a whole lot of dreams and desires. They worked hard and lived the American dream. This great nation still affords us opportunities to be what ever we desire. But, we are truley in a battle for freedom, a battle we will lose if we continue to turn our backs on the Almighty!
Boy, sign me up. I wanna go on tour. LOL

Asa
January 23, 2003 - Msg 11630: I hate to sound like I want to have my head in sand, and I know the terror of hatred towards all men is very real. Reading the posts about what happens to the victims of it, is almost more than I can bear. The world is bad enough in it's harsh realities, but arent' there more wonderful things to post here than so much of that? Perhaps we could discuss the moral values that were taught on the Andy Griffith Show and how they may apply to our own lives?. Any thoughts or comments on that?

January 23, 2003 - Msg 11631: Why don't they ever show the episode "Man in a Hurry".
January 23, 2003 - Msg 11632: Evening Porch! Sorry I ain't been here in a while, been trying to stay warm & keep the snow off the porch here. COLD COLD COLD in my neck of Kelsey's woods tonight. Weatherbug says 4 right now (8:40 pm EST) & the weatherman says supposed to get to about -10 tonight with a wind chill factor of about -20 to -25!! And I'm supposed to be in what most people consider the south!! Kids had no school today & they are out for tomorrow as well, me? I gotta go to work! dangit! Wonder what causes that?? Off to find my heavy, handmade quilt my Granny made for me before she passed away, gonna need it tonight!
*Mavis
January 23, 2003 - Msg 11633: I know! I would love to see Man In A Hurry!

As to msg 11630, it's my opinion that what has been shared here today, especially the encouraging stories are a wonderful thing . I can truely say I am a better person after having read the very honest opinions of the others who posted. Now that is what Mayberry is all about-values. But, if everyone wants to lighten things up, I will be glad to comply.

Why is it taking so long to get to the new posts? Is it just my computer?

Boo


January 23, 2003 - Msg 11634: Heres a true story about One Man Against A Crowd of People of His Own Race.

In 1963 (during big time civil rights movements) my husband had gone to a friends house to borrow a "block and Tackle". (You Men will know what that is, All I know is its a contraption for working on his car. I think he was going to pull the motor out). Anyway included with the contraption was a long rope. On the way home a small black boy was running on foot, and from the left side of the street, he ran into the side of my husbands truck. The child fell under the truck and the back wheel ran over him. All the (Black) neighbors there tried to move the child, but the childs father laid down on top of him to keep them from causing him more harm. Then the father noticed the people grabing the rope and my husband, they were going to string him up for running over the child. Now the father gets up and hold off the whole neighborhood, protecting my husband! He held them off until the police and ambulance arrived.

Now here is a real American! It doesn't matter what your color is or race is,

A Real American is a citizen that lives the way God intended mankind to live.

This country was founded on christianity. A christian loves his neighbor even if he is different and has accidently hurt you.

The little boy had a ruptured spleen, which had to be removed. He grew up and became one of the local football heros of our town.

How many of us would have the courage to stand up against his own friends and family, as this man did?
LD
January 23, 2003 - Msg 11635: Well, # 11630, I don't know how long you've been coming to the porch, but we do talk about the values of our favorite show a lot. We all love the show and that is our favorite topic. But a lot of different folks visit here, with a lot of different personalities and opinions. I see nothing wrong with going "off topic" once in a while. Most of us have come to feel like this is our home, and that we are accepted here. I have no problem with people bringing up a subject that they have been thinking about, and wanting input from others about. If if really offends you, just ignore us for a few days, and soon we'll be taling about something else! (I've done that myself a few times). I encourage you to stay and listen.
- Hazel
January 23, 2003 - Msg 11636: oops, thats "talking", not taling. I think "taling" is when you have a tail-gate party.
-me
January 24, 2003 - Msg 11637: That was quite a story, LD. Thanks for sharing it and you are right. Christian love doesn't see color or class.

Night all,

Boo
January 24, 2003 - Msg 11638: I guess this Porch just engages in the same kinda talk we'd be engaging in if we really were sitting on the Taylor's porch.... politics, news, even a little harmless chitchat about who's gotten grayer during the past year! But, like Hazel says, we all settle down again after letting off a little steam and we're back to crackin jokes, sharing homemade treats and all. Just move over to the side of the Porch (conversation) that interests you and we soapboxers will eventually stop our yakking! Well, the weekend is coming up, and the Superbowl will take our minds off the serious stuff and we'll be back to normal ;) Have a great weekend, my dear friends. ~Clara~

PS - Boo, I'm glad I could give you another perspective on the racial preference thing... too many people have the bad habit of deciding for others what is best for us rather than treating us like equal adults... as I said, THAT is the kind of racism I find the most irritating.

BTW, Mary, I appreciate your husband's concern but, honestly, any child can overcome the "uneven" playing field he's been given... as I've always been told in my family, it simply makes us better players in the long run!
January 24, 2003 - Msg 11639: Mornin' Y'all. Dang,if it ain't cold here at my rock! Can y'all believe it's below zero with the wind chill factor near Charleston,SOUTH Carolina? Sheesh! Freezing my possum fur off! I was supposed to go have some routine bloodwork this morning and was told to fast before I came in.Well,I will have to call and cancel for today,cause I had to have that COFFEE this morning!Gonna pour another cup right now-y'all are welcome to share!
Stay safe & warm everyone!
******SMILES******
possum under a rock
January 24, 2003 - Msg 11640: Gosh possum, you are up awfully early, Its 24º here in central Florida. Still moving downward. It was 25º when I got up at 5:00.
LD
January 24, 2003 - Msg 11641: My goodness are things ever topsy turvey or what. Who would believe that central Florida is colder than the moutains of Northern Utah. My themometer says 35 this morning. Y'all better stay indoors today and keep toasty warm.
Hazel, Boo I agree with your comments entirely. We get on our soap boxes around here on occasion but we mean no one harm. Just kinda nice to to spout off a little every now and again. Hope y'all can tolerate it. I don't think we get to bad at it.
Mavis, I am crushed that you come on here and post without and congrats for my football team. You know, the season didn't end when the skins did? LOL Just kidding.
Hope everyone has a great Friday and Goooo Raiders!!!

Asa
January 24, 2003 - Msg 11642: Bless all you porchsters today! Stay warm.
Charlotte Tucker
January 24, 2003 - Msg 11643: Hi, everybody. Possum, I, too have to go get bloodwork this morning and was thinking over having some black coffee. I'm not sure but I think with some blood work it is ok to have black coffee before being drawn. My memeory fails me. You might ask your dr next time. Am I right Romeena or am I dreaming that? Seems like some docs would allow some water or black coffee, depending on what tests were being done.

I'm cold and lovin' it!! Can't believe I will have to actually wear sox and shoes today (no sandals!). I'm even going to wear long pants for a change. Might even wear a jacket over my t-shirt! WhoooooWeeeee, it feels like winter.

Ya'll have a good day. Anyone have any exciting plans for the weekend they want to share?

Boo

"Jubal, Jubal, Jubal. Ju....bal."-Barney
January 24, 2003 - Msg 11644: Hi, everybody! Boo and possum, as far as I know, black coffee will not affect your tests. By "black" coffee, you understand that means no sugar either, as well as no cream. Just plain coffee shouldn't affect any kind of a blood test, unless they're measuring the caffeine in your blood! (teehee) I frequently have blood drawn in the morning, after drinking plain iced tea all night, and the lab is aware that I drink it.

It's awfully cold here in north Texas, too. I've filled the bird feeder twice in two days, and it holds nearly two pounds of seed. Also, I keep putting warm water in the birdbath, but it soon freezes. There's a big congregation around it right after I fill it, though. I've seen sparrows (of course), starlings (always), grackles (naturally) and here's the fun part. There were eleven doves out there yesterday afternoon, one crow, two shiny black birds with red epaulets on their wings, and of all things, two big old robins. What those robins are doing here in January, I don't know, but they stopped off for a drink, hung around a bit, and took off. Haven't seen them since. Sure hope Opie doesn't come along with that slingshot, though I really think he's learned his lesson about that.
Every so often, a squirrel or two, or six, will come dashing in and scatter the birds. The antics as they try to get into the bird feeder are hilarious. At least one usually makes it, and his gyrations as he tries to hang on and feed will tip it enough that seed spills to the ground, and then everybody feasts! Don't know if he's doing it on purpose or not, but it works out well for all. Like I've told people before, I don't put that stuff out there just for the birds and squirrels. It's for me, too, because I sit here at my "window on the world" and really enjoy the show. Got a few pretty good pictures, too, now that I have a camera with a zoom on it. (And since I washed that window, teehee.)

Well, gotta run. The Plum needs a bath - going out to my son's house tonight - his sweet wife is making lasagna, and she makes it goooooood! Plum will go, of course, but she's a bit grubby after the practice the other day, so needs to get prettied up before she goes visiting.
Everybody have a great Mayberry day! Sugarplum says hey! --Romeena
January 24, 2003 - Msg 11645: Romeena, didn't you know that it has been scientifically proven (not by canadian rats), that warm water freezes quicker than cold water?
LD
January 24, 2003 - Msg 11646: Hey, LD. I've heard that before, but never can pin down the credentials of the person(s) who allegedly proved it, and it just doesn't seem logical. I tried it once myself, many years ago, by putting an ice tray filled with hot water into my freezer, along with one filled with cool water. In that case, the cool one froze a little faster, though I admit there wasn't more than a few minutes difference. It wasn't exactly a scientific trial, though, because there were so many variables. What was the path of air circulation? (Don't know) What was the rate of temperature transference in the material the warm tray was sitting on, vs the same question for the cool tray? (They weren't placed on the same thing.) Were they both in the same proximity to the coils? (Don't remember.) So, as you can see, I can't claim to have any sort of answer from my "experiment". Anyway, for today, it doesn't matter because the sun is out and we've just risen above freezing! Happy little birdies!

I'm off to finally give Plum that bath, if I can find her. She saw me get the towels out, and has gone off to hide. Won't be too hard, though. She's usually under her Daddy's desk. When he was with us, she'd go under there and he'd pretend to hide her with his big old feet. It became a game, though she considered it pretty serious, as long as it kept her out of the sink. She still goes under there, but there are no more big feet to protect her. Poor puppy, she still misses him, as do I, and it's been nearly seven years. Lord, how long does it take to get over it?

Sugarplum says hey! --Romeena