Toddlers Today's MomsTalk Archive
January, 2000 (Part 1)

Happy New Year from Christi and Caleb!!

We had a nice night last night, we were home about 10 til midnight, just in time to get kids in jammies and ready for their new year picture. We took 3-4, so hopefully one of them is god enough to save for all time :-) I planned on taking pictures of them sleeping, but they both held out--and were asleep by 12:15!
This morning I didn't let Caleb bring his blankie downstairs when he woke up, so far it is not too bad, he keeps going to the gate and looking up the stairs. I am going to hold out as long as I can. His thumb has not been in his mouth yet!

SHELLEY*** Funny about Riley wanting to eat when you told him the pups name! YEAH for him going potty!! I had a 4 1/2 year old tell me he was potty trained last night, I wanted to ask what took him so long, but I just said good for you!

MORIAH*** Glad you had such a great Christmas! DH wants a digital camera so bad! He will be jealous!

KAHNE***I feel so badly for you hon! I know I don't have anything to say that will help you feel better, but I can pray, and I am for you and all involved. Please let me know if there is anything, if you need to talk, scream, whatever, I will listen.

RITA*** The Preschool board is not the same!! I tried, I thnk it will take until many of the TT's are there, cause the PT moms just don't post often.
****HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MADDY!!!!****
Hope you are feeling well and back you yourself soon!

DIANE*** Maybe try putting her to bed a little later, so she will be more tierd at nap time. (?) Caleb went thru something like it, he just didn't nap, it ran its course and he is back to normal. Good Luck!!

DEBBIE*** Hope Maddie feels better soon, and Emilee doesn't catch it!

Okay, I have cought myself up, I will see you all later!

Christi & Caleb 14 months
email: plumbs@coiinc.com
Saturday, January 01, 2000 at 11:47:51 (EST))
HAPPY NEW YEAR mommies & tots from Julianne & Colton. I am supposed to be gathering year end figures at our shop while DH watches Colton and felt I deserved a TT break. I can't believe all the Y2K hype and then nothing really happened. I am glad, but the grocery stores have got to be laughing all the way to the bank!

We had a pretty good NYE celebration. Colton came w/ us so it was hard for me to really enjoy things. He didn't go to bed until 11:00 pm and then was back up at 11:45. I guess he just didn't want to miss anything. He stayed up until we got home at 3 AM. I can't believe how much energy that kid has. He had lots of fun playing w/ the balloons and the pool table. Our neighbor lets him sit on the pool table and he walks all over it placing the balls in the pockets. We both took lots of fun pictures.

3 of Colton's molars have broken through now. His gums must hurt though because he wimpers and cries unless he is on Advil. I can't wait until this teething is all done.

Hayley & Paula: Welcome. I too still rock my son Colton to sleep. We rarely put him in his crib awake.

Helen: Yeah for Amanda's noisy kisses. Colton loves giving me kisses, but he is very stingy w/ DH! How cute that she has started humming.

Patty: Sorry to hear that Jarin is sick again, at least his ears are good.

Christi: You had me LOL at Caleb insisting on watching the same video over and over. Colton is like that some days too. I usually give in to his pleas for "toot, toot". I think you are being very reasonalbe about your daycare rules. Sure wish you lived closer and could watch Colton.

Shelly: Great job Riley pooping on the potty. Tuna's a cute name for a puppy too.

Moriah: It would be nice if all MILs were so great at Christmas. My IL's gave us money this year to go towards a new couch. Have fun digging your way through the stacks of presents.

Kahne: Sorry to hear about your troubling news. I think you still need to support him and if he calls at least tell him that you are praying for him.

Darleen: Congrats on DH's new job. Sorry to hear Nolan is so sick, hope he feels better soon.

Rita: Hope everyone at your house feels better soon too.

Diane: Hopefully it is just a phase Angel is going through. Keep trying some sort of routine and at least attempt the naps everyday.

Debbie: Thanks for your Christmas card. I sure hope Emilee doesn't catch Maddie's eye infection. Sure will keep you on your toes trying to keep them apart! Lots of luck to you.

DH is probably wondering what is taking me so long. I have to stop at the video store and the grocery store too yet. I sure hope Colton is taking a nap for him now or he will be a big grumpy bear when I get home at he is not feeling so well.

I hope my internet acces at work is running Monday.

Julianne & Colton 17 mo
Saturday, January 01, 2000 at 14:49:59 (EST))
Maddy - HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU!. Our mommy forgot to include that in her post last night. We think she was a little tired. Hope you had a great day. Maddie & Emilee
Maddie & Emilee
email: debngreg@qnet.com
Saturday, January 01, 2000 at 14:51:55 (EST))
Happy New Year's Day!
We had the most boring New Year's Eve ever, we were home by 9:30pm, and Nolan went to bed at 10pm, and I was in bed at 12:12am. They were suppose to have entertainment in the park all evening until midnight, but they had absolutely nothing, so my Dh and I came home had a drink and munchies, and I went to bed. Today we are doing absolutely nothing. I want to get outside and get my Christmas lights down. That is about it for our day.

Nolan is getting back to himself slowly. He is going through the hitting stage, whenever we change his diaper or try and get his clothes on he starts hitting us. Are any of your toddlers going through that? I just keeping tapping his hands and telling him no hitting or kicking.

Christi-That is a good contract that you are setting up for your parents, if you don't have rules set, then you will get taken advantage of like I do. My mom was suppose to pay me the Friday before Christmas, and I've yet to see the money.
Thank you everyone for the get well wishes for Nolan.
I hope everyone had a Happy New Year!
Darleen & Nolan (13.5 mths)
email: j7smith@ciaccess.com
Saturday, January 01, 2000 at 15:38:59 (EST))
Hi mommies. Happy New Year! Jarin and I went to a friend's house and were home by 11:30. We watched "Austin Powers, the Spy Who Shagged Me" and I thought it was the dumbest movie ever. (Sorry if any of you laughed!) I don't think I even cracked a smile more than once. Anyway, we got home and got Jarin into his jammies in time for Dick Clark to say "Grab someone you love and get ready." So, I picked up Jarin and we counted backward from ten. I gave him a big hug and kiss and told him "Happy New Year". I figured, who better to share the new year with than my little angel? Then I put him to bed. LOL. DH got home at 12:30 and we had a glass of champagne, some celebrating (!) and then bed for us too. Jaime and Jesse were with friends.
**Christi: I think your requests are reasonable. LOL at you watching the Best of Elmo so many times. Jarin got a Barney and Teletubby tape and we've watched them almost continually since Christmas. I bet Caleb is adorable in his new haircut. I think it's about time for Jarin's, but I just can't bring myself to do it.
**Shelly: Too cute about Riley blaming his poo poo on everyone else. What a funny story about him and the tuna. =)
**Moriah: Good to hear from you again. So glad everything is going well with Alex. Your MIL sounds like my mom at Christmas. She always goes nuts. I was getting all teary-eyed at your post about friends. I agree with you - I think I am closer with some of my "cyber friends" than some of my IRL friends.
**Kahne: I sure hope today is a better day for you, girl! That's awful about David. I guess you just say a prayer for him and hope everything works out as well as it can. I also hope you have a better day at work. I'm sure it's hard work and often depressing. =(
**LuCynda: LOL at your post about DH always smelling so dang good. I think you are absolutely right about changes have to happen from the inside and eventually, we balance each other out in a marriage. We all have pasts we're not proud of - I know I do. We just go on with the future and the present and put the past behind us.
**Helen: Glad you got out of the BIL's party. I hope Amanda is feeling better today. Jaime is pretty much better, but she refuses to take care of herself (doesn't take the antibiotics, doesn't sleep, etc), so who knows how long it will last. I blew up at her yesterday and said I was done taking her to the dr and paying for medicine when she doesn't listen or take the meds. It is very frustrating. When they're 16, how can you throw medicine down their throat or force them to sleep? I can force her to her room, but I can't make her sleep. UGH. Jarin is ok, still really stuffy though. =(
**Darleen: Congrats on DH's new job! I hope Nolan feels better soon.
**Rita: Happy Birthday Maddy! I hope you and your whole family feel better!! Sounds like you guys have really been fighting this thing. =(
**Diane: I guess I'd offer the same advice as everyone else - put Angel down a little later and see how she does. Maybe she'll just be one of those kids who doesn't need much sleep during the day. My Jesse quit napping before he was two and hasn't ever taken a nap since.
**Debbie: Sorry to hear that Maddie has the flu and an eye infection. I hope you are successful in keeping Emilee healthy. It is so hard when you have more than one kid. No matter how hard you try to keep them apart, they all usually end up with it. =(
**Julianne: Wow! Colton was up until 3!!They are pretty amazing with all their energy,aren't they? LOL. Congrats on finally getting those three teeth through! =)
**Take care everyone. See you later in 2000!
Patty and Jarin - 16 months
email: tematheny@ctlnet.com
Saturday, January 01, 2000 at 16:52:47 (EST))
Happy New Year! Romaine and Saba here!

Y2K was a farce, was it not? Everything has been fine here!! Snow is falling lightly and we went out for lunch at a friend of DH's.

We had a quiet NYE, another couple came over and we had fondue and they went home shortly after 12, so we got to bed at a decent time!

The holidays went quickly (they always do when we go home) and it was hectic as usual. I had a great time until we went to IL's which was the 24th. I felt unhappy from there on, but can't put my finger on why.

I was glad when we left there to come home, but very sad to leave MY family!!

I know what Leanne is having, but don't know if I am at liberty to tell you ladies, so I will leave you all in suspense-teehee!!

We all got spoiled over the holidays! Both girls ended up w/ colds-yuck!! DH has felt flu-like symptoms off and on for several days. I hope that nothing comes of it! So far, I seem okay!

An interesting gift that we got was a tv for our vehicle! Never knew that there was such a thing! It does not fit ours too well, but we did use it on the way home to distract Saba when she got antsy!

Both girls travelled quite well. The last hour or so both ways was where it got rough b/c both were complaining b/c they were tired of being in their seats.

DD2 did not end up reacting to the dye or laxatives that I had for my test-yay! So I did continue to nurse. The bottle thing ended up being totally unsuccessful.

I scanned the previous posts only for my name, so there are few personals that I am posting (sorry). I did read the occasional one as well.

Here I go...

Jennifer-LOVED the card! Thanks! Sounds like B J was terific!

Sarah G-The story was very weird!!

Lisa B- I'm not sure yet what they will do about the stone, or if they will do anything. I go to discuss the results w/ the Dr. on Wed., so will hopefully get an idea then. it did not bother me over the holidays.

LuCynda-Here I am, I was on holidays. Congrats on having a girl!!! You sound so very sad. Please e-mail me if you need to!

Helen and Patty- Thanks for the b-day wishes!!! I went to a movie childless (The Talented Mr. Ripley-great movie!). I pumped and left milk w/ IL's. It worked great-she did not need to eat 'til we got home!

Rebecca-Hope that the depression lifts. I have been very blue of late as well, but may only have been due to holiday stress. It seems to be lifting. Big hug!

Beth-Sorry to hear about your grandma...I obviously missed something. Was it she that had cancer? Again, I am so sorry!

I cannot beleive that in a couple of months Saba will be 2! Where does the time go??? I still think about a 3rd, but don't think that it will be a reality.

Funny note- DH's aunt called Dh's parents after reading our Christmas letter to congratulate them. She misunderstood and thought that we pg again expecting this Sept!!!! mY WORD!!! 1 YEAR APART????? Even if I did want another, that close would have me MAJORLY stressed!!!!!! DH set that straight w/ FIL when he asked what we were not telling!!:):):):)

Happy 2000!!!
Romaine and Saba 21 mos.
email: rrantry@yahoo.ca
Saturday, January 01, 2000 at 20:43:12 (EST))
Happy New Year from LisaB & Max. Poor little Max has a head cold - snot is running EVERYWHERE!!! We've even had to haul out the old nasal aspiration, which DH hates almost as much as Max - LOL! Max has decided he doesn't like our 2 cats anymore. He waves his arms at time, grunting, to shoo them away from whereever he is. Friday he actually SAT on one of the cats and has bonking it on the head with one hand and pulling fur with the other. The stupid cat didn't even protest; just laid there and put up with the demon child. Hopefully this phase passes quickly as we all know how hard it is to teach a 16-month old how to be kind to animals.

Our parents as teacher lady comes tomorrow night. She asked if I wanted any information on anything in particular and I mentioned potty training (as Max loves to flush toilets, pulls on diapers when they are wet, and idolizes an older kid at daycare who is getting potty trained). She's bringing stuff but told me most boys, including her 3, don't train until age 3. I'm not going to push Max at all but sure do hope he's at least trained during the day sometime during his 2nd year. I guess time would show how knows more on this issue, me or her - LOL!!!

BETH: I'm so sorry to hear your Grandmother passed away, especially on Christmas. It's great, however, that she was a go-getter until the end. My g-pa died about 2 years ago but he was just a shell of himself by the end - couldn't eat, couldn't walk, couldn't hardly talk, etc. I think it was incrediably hard on him to see himself deteriorate so much (as well as hard on the rest of the family). Don't feel guilty about not being more upset. Like you said, dying in your sleep at the top of your game is THE way to go and she's in a better place now.

PATTY: Poor Jarin, being sick again. A big OOPS on throwing away all that money. I guess you can always claim it as a charitable contribution for your 1999 taxes - LOL!!! Are you telling me kids just get more stubborn as they get older?! I wouldn't worry too much as the medicine isn't VITAL to her health. A 19-yr. old my brother was good friends with refused to take his seizure meds and his parents didn't push the issue. He had a seizure (they think - no autopsy) while driving and it caused a fatal one car accident.

LauraB: I'm sorry to hear Shane is sick.

CHRISTI: Sounds like Caleb is getting good at communicating his wishes!! The agreement sounds great to me. I pay the same amount each month - regardless of if Max goes to the sitter or not. She gets 2 weeks of "paid" vacation and gives me at least a month's notice on those. I pay, however, if I don't take Max in or if she can't watch him (only happened once - she had pinkeye) ... regardless of the reason. I think you are being very reasonable and generous in your agreement. You might want to add something on consequences if the agreement isn't followed - such as 2 violations and you won't watch the kid anymore.

KAHNE: My notes from last week said "glad work is going well" but I see it's gone a little downhill. 10 hours without a break is ridiculous and might even violate some federal labor laws. Of course they might be like my old employer. I worked 10 hours days and "got" 30 minutes of breaks but I couldn't ever "go on break" - as my breaks were considered to be ANY trip to the bathroom, ANY trip to get a drink, ANY non-work related talking to other staff, etc. Regarding David, please accept the call if you get one. He needs your support now. He is an adult and is responsible for his own actions. There's likely nothing you could have done to prevent this latest incidence ... but you don't want to feel more blame if he calls, you refuse to talk to him, and then something else happens. As someone else said, he's innocent until proven guilty. He may have been in on the escape attempt but any of the 3 guys could have murdered the guard ... not necessarily him. Also, if you love someone you love them regardless. Unfortunately love isn't a consciencous choice and our loved ones after disappoint us (such as my sister who spent time in jail for 2 embellzements within a matter of months). Also, remember that if God can forgive sins so can we ... but only if David committed a sin and shows remorse.

SARAH: Max has throw tantrums for awhile but they were mainly crying and short lived. Now he throws himself on the floor, hits, kicks, etc. - be VERY melodramatic!

SarahG: I agree too many presents are bad. My older sis has always brought her kids everything on their Christmas and birthday lists, stuff they want on a regular trip to Walmart, etc. They are now spoiled rotten and very materialistic, with no sense of money management.

PAULA: Welcome! I rock Max to sleep for naps, as does the sitter. At night, we lay down in my bed together and cuddle until he goes to sleep. I plan to wait until he's in a toddler bed before having him go to bed himself (and will probably lay on the floor beside him during the transition). By the way, when does everyone plan to go to a toddler bed? I will in a few months as Max is getting too tall.

JULIANNE: Congrats on Colton saying 2 word sentences. Max said a new word today - either duck or book. He said it during the middle of a hymn at church so I couldn't tell for sure (was pointing at a duck in a book when he said it!).

HAYLEY: Welcome! Thankfully Max never really liked his pacifer - only used it for a few months. I've read they or the thumb is perfectfully ok and safe until age 3 or so, when the permanent teeth start coming in.

MORIAH: I'm so glad to hear Alex sat up!

SHELLY: Riley sounds so funny with Tuna, blaming everyone but himself for poopy diapers, etc. Yeah for using the potty chair!

LuCYNDIA: Great attitude on your first ex!

DARLEEN: Congrats on DH's new job! Poor Nolan - croup, ear infection, and molar ... what a triple whammy. :-( Max is hitting now too, as part of his temper tantrums.

DIANE: Max goes to sleep around 9 and gets up around 5 with about 2 hours of naps, for comparison. Maybe you should put Angel down for a nap earlier. I know Max is hard to get to sleep if we miss a nap or have a late bedtime due to other activities as he's over-tired and fights sleep a lot more.

DEBBIE: I'm sorry Maddie is having such a hard time.


LisaB & Max (16 months)
email: lisa_lab@hotmail.com
Sunday, January 02, 2000 at 19:18:08 (EST))
Hello to everyone. HAPPY NEW YEAR! We had a quiet time at home. The boys fell asleep around 10:30 but Riley stayed up until 11:40. I woke the older two to do fireworks. Then we all went to bed. Petunia gave me a sweet New years kiss. Who needs a man when you have a good dog???LOL We went to my Moms for NYD. She is driving me crazy. She took me shopping and tried to get me all these old lady clothes. I responded by picking out a very expensive outfit for her to buy me. Later, her hubby was having a cow at the kids because of the furniture. They have a mamason and a papason (weird wicker furniture) up stairs. Well, they want the kids to spend time up there. But when they sit on the furniture, it takes a beating. Not that they jump all over it or anything, it's just not kid friendly furniture. My oldest moved and the thing fell off it's base, so John put it away. We've been having trouble with all the kids fighting and teasing each other. So Tammy and I went upstairs to settle a dispute. There was no yelling, just telling the older two to stop and the younger two to stop whinning. My sis goes outside and my Mom starts yelling at me. She thinks that the younger two (7 yr olds) tattle and make up stories to get the other two (12 & 13) into trouble. Sometimes that is true. But not all the time. She wants us to ignore what's going on up there. Let them work it outon their own. My problem with that is, the older two weigh a lot and their way of settling things is hitting, kicking, calling names etc. I don't like this, so I go up and yell at whoever is causing the problems. I want my boys to have respect for all. Respect startes at home. My neph has a bad attitude and when Tay gets with him they are not nice. I've curtailed how much time they spend together. I want Tay to learn that he does not go along with the crowd. He needs to recognize right from wrong. The other day, the younger two were playing in the bedroom and the other two were bored. So they went in there and started trouble. I do not deal well with that. Then to top it off, my neph tells my sis a lie about how it started. When we got home, I asked Tay about it. Now here was his way out, to agree with what Travis told his mom, but he looked me in the eye, knowing he would be in more trouble, and told me that Travis was lying. So who would you believe? I'm tired of it! Does anyone out there have any words of wisdom? WHen we were growing up, if I teased moriah like my kids tease each other, my Mom slapped the crap out of me. She used to slap me hard enough to make my lip bleed. Now she acts like she was this caring loving mom that we could tell anything to. Makes me SICK!!!!!! Ok, I'm done bellyaching!

Kahne*** I've spent the last 3 years feeling guilty for my ex. Everytime he screws up, I feel horrible guilt, I think, if I hadn't left him he wouldn't be going thru this. But he is an adult. I make my own decisions, he makes his own. He has over 4000.00 handed to him every month. Has no need to work. True, he pays me 1/2 of that every month. But one person living on 2300.00 is pretty good. He has plenty of house to live in. Yet, he chooses to hang out with the druggy GF and all of her low life friends. Thus making his own problems. His choice. Your friend made his own bed and now he must lie in it. Now you make a choice, be his friend regardless, or write him off. I also have to make that decision here real soon. Don't be hard on yourself! Sounds to me like you're a caring person!

Darlene***Congrats on your Dh's job. Where do you live now?

Rita***Happy Birthday Maddy!!! Everytime I look at my 12 yr old, I wonder where did the time go!

Diane***Both of my older boys stopped naps before 2. Nothing I could do would convince them to take one. My only relief was that they went to bed by eight every night.

Romaine***Riley is also creeping up on 2. He will be 2 on April 1. This is my last baby and I'm in no hurry for him to grow out of babyhood.

I told you all about the GF episode, when the ex had to call the cops. Well, he came over here C-eve and told me that we would get a restraining order and that he wanted nothing more to do with her. And all sorts of BS. He changed his plans and didn't take Tay to the Bay Area, telling him that we wasn't going to be home in time for school to start back up. Well, it was a crock. NYE he called the boys, I have caller ID, he was calling from the GF's fathers house. He didn't take Tay because he was down there with her. That is why I have to make the decision I referred to above. I don't want to be his friend as long as he is with trash. People look at me differently, because of their antics. It always comes back on me and I don't like this. I do not associate with people like her. I refuse. Holding me responsible for my own actions with Monte (and people do, believe me) is one thing. But friends come up to me and say things like, I didn't know you and Jim did drugs and beat each other. I get really upset and tell them that that shit never happened in my marriage. But I wonder if they believe. It will be hard to leave him out of my life, but it's the right thing.
Well, I promised games with the boys! Tomorrow, I promise to only post nice things!!!!!!!!
Shelly & Riley 21 months yesterday!
email: shelly@bobvance.com (new e-mail address)
Sunday, January 02, 2000 at 19:48:01 (EST))
GUESS WHO???? Okay, I know that you all probably just scrolled down and read that it is me and Dillon or should I just say me since he can't type yet but let's just let that be our little secret because he thinks that he is the next Bill Gates and I myself am hoping that is the truth. Jay, however says that I can keep wishing. He now knows how to turn the computer off and on though so I am always having to make sure that he isn't on the net talking to his gal pals. LOL since we have no phone but the good news is that is a month we willbe on the net again and you all will be sick and tired of me as you used to be. I miss you all so much and hope that you all had a great Christmas and a wonderful New Year. Jay and I drank just a tiny bit and then we made some fireworks of our own. Kind of like you Patty and Tom. LOL Well I hope that you all are doing well. I will talk to you all later.
Tracey and Dillon 18 months
email: ttelger@hotmail.com
Sunday, January 02, 2000 at 21:44:50 (EST))
Goodmorning from Helen&Amanda!!
Well its the last day of 'winter break' for the kids and they are both sick- Amanda is really grumpy but isgetting better, still no appetite and keeps hanging on the fridge door and whining all day!! DH has quit smoking and is really moody-- quite a house to be in with all these moody people- as long as I don't get sick I can deal with them! LOL!

LISAB--Any news on CRYSTAL?? Is she keeping in touch with you still- hope she is back soon! No potty training until 3?? I think thats her opinion- everyone I know has been trained by 3- let Max lead the way and as long as he is not pushed and has lots of praise with all the interest he shows in it, he'll probably be trained before that. Amanda lokes to follow DH into the bathroom and watch- also tries to touch the stream- fascinating I guess? She tries to flush too but the lever is too hard to push.

Speaking of potty training- Amanda has been pointing to her diaper and saying 'that' when she poops-- its a start!!

We had a good NYE- a couple friends came over and had a couple drinks- the kids wanted to stay up but fell asleep and missed the new year- of course we were in bed! We went out to eat w/friends NY day, that was nice.

I should have more pics to send out in a couple wks- I was trying to finish my film last night- so all the pics Amanda will be wearing the same thing-LOL! I finally got a pic taken of the three together-- someone was always missing every time I would think of taking a picture! I tried with the dog too but he's such a spaz that they probably didn't turn out!

Well I am not looking forward to taking all these decorations down- inside and out- I will probably do a little at a time over the next week since its going to be so mild-- no snow- we've broken records for going this long into the winter with none!!

Well I have my list for the drug store, better shower and get ready when they open--LATER!!!
Helen&Amanda@17mos(#3)
email: mhim27@hotmail.com
Monday, January 03, 2000 at 08:10:20 (EST))
HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!! Good morning ladies. SARAH here. Wow, it's so weird when you think about living in 2 different milleniums.

Anyway, hope you all had a great weekend! We didn't do much for NYE. DH had to work until about 9pm. So my friend, her fiancee, and I went to see him, had a couple of drinks until he got off, and then headed back to our house to hang out at. There was NO ONE out NYE. And, what a big farce Y2K was, huh????

HANNAH has been such a little angel lately! So lovey. Giving kisses out to everyone without even being asked. Love her!!!!!!! :) We celebrated Christmas with my mom's side of the family yesterday (we do it a week later every year since people have so much going on Christmas day). HANNAH got more stuff. My aunt got her a book "A Little Star Called Hannah". Isn't that cute?? I can't wait to read it. Anyway, it was kind of sad cause my uncle, aunt, and 2 cousins came (the one's who lost their child last summer). Of course there were alot of tears shed.

Well on to personals:

PAULA, CAELEN, and KYLA - WELCOME!!! I don't know what happened to BARBARA. She posted for a while and emailed me, but stopped.

HELEN - HANNAH also says "no" and shakes her head. It's kind of funny. She also just started making her kissing sound. Too funny. We started taking down Christmas stuff last night. It sucked. Our vacuum broke in the middle of vacuuming up the needles, so there's needles EVERYWHERE!!!! UGH!

HAYLEY and REBECCA - WELCOME!!!

PATTY - How is JARIN feeling? Cute you two brought in the New Year together! :)

KAHNE - Definitely take his call!! Sorry for all of the let down though.

ROMAINE - OK, that's NO FAIR!!! Now we're all in suspense!!!

CHRISTI - I think your agreement is very fair!

SHELLY - Cute story about RILEY calling the dog TUNA!! :)

MORIAH - Nice....video camera?? You know I feel the same way about you!! You and ALEX are very special to HANNAH and I!!!!

DARLEEN - How is NOLAN feeling? Congrats on DH's job!! :)

DEBBIE - Good to hear from you! How is MADDIE feeling??

RITA - HAPPY BIRTHDAY MADDY!!! How are you feeling?

TRACEY - HI!!! SOOOO good to hear from you! Looking forward to hearing from you more!

Hello to everyone I missed!!!! And to all of the sick babies, and mommies......I HOPE YOU GET BETTER SOON!!! :) :)

Talk to you all later!

Sarah and Hannah (16 months TOMORROW!)
email: smoore@geatoir.cfer.com
Monday, January 03, 2000 at 11:41:29 (EST))
Happy 2000 from Birdie and Noah!!!!! Hope everyone is well. I have made my way to the chair, finally. Noahs room and what is now his playroom are loaded. Can you say "new house". This is so crazy. I even suggested the whole savings bond thing to everyone. No such luck, although great grandma did pay for another session of gymboree instead of toys. Noah got a tunnel and a fold up slide that he absolutley loves. Christmas was a little much for him and he was in bed by 7:00PM. He didn't make it very far on New Years either, 8:30 he was out. We stayed in with friends and ate Chinese. It was actually a lot of fun. Still going to Phys Ther. I hate it. Very time consuming and painful. Noah now knows how to take his diaper off and does it often. Maybe I should sit him on the potty when he starts peeing on my floors! I have tons of work to catch up on. It's hard to find the time to do everything when all I want to do is crawl through Noah's tunnel with him. Okay, so I don't really fit but you get the idea. Oh BTW, on Sunday the 16th at 7:00PM on ABC (The Disney movie) the Loretta Claiborne story will be on. She is a Special Olympic athlete who has had an incredible life and has been on Oprah and the Today show and placed top 100 in Boston Marathon and won the ESPN Arthur Ashe Espy award. It should be good. Just wanted to pull a little PR move and let you all know about it. Okay, Noah's diaper is off. I'm considering duct tape. Gotta go. Happy New Year!!! Take care.
Birdie and 13 month old Noah
email: LJU777@AOL.COM
Monday, January 03, 2000 at 12:24:38 (EST))
Hello from Rita.

Man, we have been so sick! I finally dragged myself out of bed on Friday and then Maddy & Amy got the flu. Maddy must have been hanging out with Debbie's Maddie, because she developed a fever and the stomach flu. I am at home with the girls today. Hopefully, tomorrow will mark a return to normality.

Patty and Christi - Thanks for Maddy's cards! She hasn't been up to see them yet, so I am saving them.

Tomorrow my little sweetpea turns one. Wow! Where did the time go? Amy is bravely toddling through the house. The cold and flu have not helped her balance, but she is still wobbily walking through the house. Her six new teeth are still causing her some discomfort at night and getting me up a few times. Other than that, she is her little sweet self. Her favorite new toys are her FP tea set and her Blue's Clues musical book. This has been quite a year and I wouldn't trade a chaotic moment of it!

It's a good thing that we decided to have a joint party this coming weekend. The girls have been too sick this past week. Now I just have to figure out how to get the house in shape in one day...

Take care everyone and stay healthy!

Rita & Amy
email: ritad@home.com
Monday, January 03, 2000 at 13:55:44 (EST))
Yeah, my internet access still works!! We had the hardest time getting Colton to bed last night. He fell asleep around 8 pm and only slept for a half hour. We fed him a bottle and tried to get him to sleep on the couch. I was so tired I got ready for bed. DH brought Colton to bed and we figured he would fall asleep w/ us. No such luck w/ Mr. Energy.

I finally had enough of Colton's kicks and turns so I put him in his crib,tucked him in and said it is nite nite time so he must go to sleep in his own bed. He threw a terrible fit. He cried for about 10 min then finally fell asleep. I felt bad doing it, but I was exhaused.

This morning when he woke up and I got him out I saw that he had thrown up over the side of the crib into his toy box. What a fun mess for me to clean up. I felt really guilty about letting him cry himself to sleep after seeing that, but I am not going to back down again. You would think I would have learned my lesson by now. Next time he has a cold, no more sleeping in our bed, it isn't worth it retraining him to sleep in his again.

Darleen: The only thing I can suggest to Nolan's hitting is to not hit his hands, but to hold them and not let go while telling him that hitting is wrong and a no-no. Otherwise you might be sending a mixed message. Good luck.

Patty: At least you and your DH got to celebrate. AF decided to come early and ruin that part of our plans!

Romaine: Glad you're back and had fun w/ your family. Come on, you can tell us, Leanne won't find out. LOL Too funny about your IL's thinking you were pg again.

LisaB: Raising a cat-hater are you? Poor things, they must just love Max to take all that abuse. We are not going to switch Colton to the toddler bed until he is almost 3. His room does not have a door so I do not feel comfortable about him being able to get out of bed and wander around the house. Hopefully we will be building a new house late next year. If not, I'm not sure what we will do.

Shelly: Let your mom know that even when you are at her house you are still the mother of your kids and are going to discipline them that way you see as best as otherwise they will think they can misbehave at her house and get away w/ it.

Tracy: Great to hear from you again. I am glad that you will be able to be a regular again soon.

Helen: Yeah for Amanda letting you know she poops. Colton make such a production out of it: freezes, turns red, grunts, and even braces himself! He doesn't seem to have too much interest in the potty yet though.

Sarah: That's great that Hannah hands out her kisses so freely. Whenever DH asks Colton for a kiss Colton said no or turns from him and gives me one. He is starting to get a complex about it. I just laugh and say that Colton loves his mommy more!!

Bridie: Good luck w/ Mr. no diaper Noah.

Talk to you later.
Julianne & Colton 17 mo
email: jjones@batts.com
Monday, January 03, 2000 at 14:02:22 (EST))
Hello again from Helen&Amanda!!

I'm taking a break from taking down decorations and cleaning the garage-- I've taken down all the wreaths on the windows, candles,and lights off the shrubs, and have been sweeping the garage and set up the new shelving I've had for a few wks but it was too cold to stay out there and get anything done so thats my project for today.
The kids are vegging on the couch in sleeping bags trying to get over their colds. Amanda is napping.

SARAH-- So Hannah is 'kissing'now too-- isn't it cute!! Unfortunately she just learned to open the door over the holidays- what a nuicance that is!!

PATTY-- So you saw AustinPowers!! How stupid was that!! DH thought it was SO FUNNY-- I,like you was so discuisted and kept rolling my eyes- not my kind of movie at all-- and even better----- DD slept at a friends house a couple days ago and announced when she got home that they rented it!!!! 'That'for 11 year olds-- I was fuming- what a parent to let kids rent a movie ALL about sex!!UUUHHHHHH!!!!

Back to the garage--LATER!!
Helen&Amanda
Monday, January 03, 2000 at 14:05:03 (EST))
Hi mommies. I am so early today! Jarin is napping away. DH had to take the morning off and switch his schedule and training to stay home while I went back to work. Jarin started running a fever last night and it was almost 103. He had been really lethargic all day, not eating, etc. He now has what Jaime has last week. UGH, poor little guy. He is so stuffy he can't breathe at all. It's a wonder he even can sleep! When he wakes up, I am taking him to "visit" the sitter since he will have to go back tomorrow or the next day (depending on how he feels). My poor little angel. =( I hate it when he is sick!!!
**Romaine: Glad to see you back and it's good that you had fun with your family. I can't believe you're not telling us what Leanne is having! =) You'd better get her on here to share her news! I want to see The Talented Mr. Ripley too.
**LisaB: Sorry to hear Max is also suffering the runny nose. =( LOL at him with the cat. Jarin also tortures ours, but he usually runs away. Hey, a tax deduction? Never thought of that. LOL. Yay for Max saying duck (or book). =)
**Shelly: LOL at the who needs a man when you have a good dog? =) It's tought to discipline kids around their grandparents. My mom thinks the grandkids can do no wrong.
**Tracey: Yay - you posted!!! Can't wait to hear more from you this month and hear all about Blake, TNT, and Dillon. =) And hey, aren't you proud of me for our "celebration"? LOL
**Helen: Sorry to hear your girls are sick too. My Dr said it is everywhere right now. All the beds in the pediatric ward at our hospital are full. LOL at Amanda and "that". Too cute. Yes, Austin Powers was so far beyond stupid. Yuck. Hey, when you get done straightening and organizing your house, would you start on mine? Please??
**Sarah: Sweet little Hannah giving kisses to everyone. Makes a mother proud, huh? Jarin is not feeling so well. =(
**Birdie: LOL picturing Noah running around with duct tape around his diaper. Hey, maybe you could tell your families "Can you say SMALL TOYS?" LOL
**Rita: Glad to hear you are a little better, but sorry that now Maddy has it. =( Your whole family needs to get better and stay healthy. You guys sound like us - we just keep passing it from one to the next.
**Julianne: I also hate the retraining sleep thing - although Jarin has never really accomplished it. =) But every time he is sick, I start getting up with him again. AF-yuck. I've not had her visit me since before I got pg with Jarin!!! Jarin is also a grunter, gets all red faced and concentrates when he poops too. It always cracks me up.
**See you all later!
Patty and Jarin - 16 months
email: tematheny@ctlnet.com
Monday, January 03, 2000 at 14:59:35 (EST))
Hi and Happy New Year from Cameron and "I think I might live Sue." I, too, had that horrible flu that's been going around everywhere. Yesterday was the first day since last Wednesday that I attempted anything besides tea, toast, and flat Coke. You'd think my body would at least have the decency to lose 5-10 pounds, but no such luck. Now I just feel half-starved, but still look half bloated from all the holiday feasting. Cameron was lucky enough to escape it so far (keep your fingers crossed!) and I was lucky that DH didn't get it either. He is such a huge WEENIE when he gets sick! Thank heavens he's a guy - he'd never make it being a woman and enduring some of the things we do on a regular basis!

Thank you everyone for your birthday wishes for Cameron and especially to CHRISTI & CALEB and SARAH & HANNAH for your email cards. Even though I felt like a walking zombie, we did have a little family birthday party for Cam on Friday. I told most people they didn't need to bring any gift since he got so many Christmas presents, or to purchase savings bonds for him if they really felt they wanted to get him something. Nope! Everyone bought him more toys and clothes. It's really very kind and sweet, but how much does one little boy need? It's great because DH and I would never be able to afford to buy him so many new things, but I also have a healthy dose of guilt about it because some poor kids have next to nothing. We donated some of his really "infant" clothes and equipment to a shelter for battered women and children since we know we won't be having any more kids. His favorite new toy so far is the Little Tykes piano. He loves just about anything that makes music. In a pinch, anything noisy will do!

BETH - I'm also sorry to hear about your grandma's passing. My grandmother (with whom I lived when I was little) died on Thanksgiving Day years ago and that holiday has never been the same for my family. We still get together and have a nice day, but she's on our minds more than usual that day and everyone feels pretty subdued.

KAHNE - don't know what to tell you about your friend David. I guess I would accept his phone call, but would explain to him how disappointed and distraught you are about the decisions he's made and be honest about how it will affect your future relationship.

LOL about pooping stories. Cam's new thing while pooping is to stop what he's doing, get on his hands and knees, stick his butt up in the air, and do his thing. He also makes a big production of turning red in the face, sticking out his tongue, and grunting. I crack up every time! Sometimes I think it would be great to be that uninhibited again! Scary thought since I'm NOT shy to begin with.

Since I had the flu and an unexpected visit from AF on NYE, I didn't do much in the way of celebration. My sister had made plans to come up and share a bottle of champagne with me and DH, but I laid on the couch while the two of them had a couple of drinks and toasted the new year. Having a "special celebration" with DH didn't even enter my mind (probably not his either judging by the way I looked by the end of the day). There's always next year!

Gotta get back to the piles of work that await me. I'm having a very hard time getting out of holiday mode and back into the normal routine. I've just had a whole bunch of days off, but am ready for a vacation (early retirement is more like it). The weird 65 degree weather is NOT helping my motivation.

Have a great day today. Chat with ya'll tomorrow!









Sue and Cameron
email: sbarry@key.org
Monday, January 03, 2000 at 15:43:23 (EST))
Christi here

Well, congrats are in order!!! No blankie for 2 1/2 days--yippy!! It has been pretty miserable here at times, but so far we are making it. To add to it, Dh is sick, I kind of forgot how much like babies sick men act.

An update on Mom, she finishes her radiation treatmenats this week, and will not do chemo, but hormone therapy instead. Thanks to all who have prayed continually!

Thanks to EVERYONE for the suggestions and comments about the contract. I have re worded some things and added one or two things, and am going to hand it out today for my "parents" to read. If I get "new" kids I will give them a much stricter (not a word, I know) contract, I just feel like I can't change things so drastically now.

LISA B.*** So funny about Max and the cat, I wonder if Caleb and he talk and figure out goofy things to do. Caleb also drives the cat crazy, and the cat just takes it. I call it a love/hate relationship. :-)

SHELLY*** Sorry your ex dissapointed Tay, I don't blame you for not wating to be involved with them.

RITA*** Hope everyone is feeling better for your party this week. Together parties are the way to go! We will until the kids start to complain.

BIRDIE*** Try putting the diaper on backwards, or I have heard that the duct tape really does works :-)

SUE*** Hands and knees to poop? That has to be a picture!

Well, to everyone I missed, HI! :o)

We have a winter storm warning for tonight, hopefully we will get a big pile of snow! See you all tomorrow!

Christi & Caleb 14 months
email: plumbs @coiinc.com
Monday, January 03, 2000 at 16:20:55 (EST))
Hi Mom's and Todds. It is Darleen here!
What a crappy day here in Canada, it has rained all day. Yesterday was spring jacket day, and today is back to winter coats, hats, mitts etc.
Well..... I am totally cleaning my house, and getting myself ready to move. We handed in our notice, so no turning back now. I went through mine and Dh's closests, and got rid of clothes and shoes that we don't and won't wear. My Dh is such a pain when it comes to getting rid of clothes. Next time I'm going to get rid of stuff without him knowing it. Not much is happening here today, Nolan is down for nap #2. He is coming back to himself. He still has no appetite, he would rather play with his food and make a mess all over his tray. I bought him an Elmo bowl hoping that might coax him to eat, but he dumps his food out, and chats with Elmo. He loves Elmo.

Shelly- I am from Chatham, Ontario, Canada, 1 hour from the Detroit Border. Where are you from? We are moving to Toronto, which is 3 hours from Chatham heading East towards Ottawa.

Sarah- Nolan is feeling much better, thank-you for asking. Where are you from?

Is anybody on TT from the Toronto Ontario area? We bought Nolan a Toddler RaceCar for his 1st birthday, we won't put him in it until we are settled in our new place. We will set the crib and his bed up, and give him a choice, if he is ready for the bed then we will take the crib down. I'm not sure if I'm ready for him to get out of the crib yet. He loves to chat and play with his crib toys every moring, and I love listening to him before I go and get him in the morning.
Do your toddlers still have bottles and soothers? We still give Nolan his soother, but I have tried to get rid of the bottle, but he refuse to drink out of a cup first thing in the morning, and last thing at night. He only gets 2 bottles a day, and his soother in his bed. My doctor said not to take the soother away until he gets his 2nd year molars, it will be easier then. He is down to 2 soothers instead of 4, we threw the other ones in the garbage. I saw a 3-4 year old in Wal-mart last night with a soother, and I wanted to come home and throw Nolan's in the garbage right away.
Well I better go and finsh my house cleaning before Nolan wakes.
Have a great day!!
Keep smiling! :)
Darleen & Nolan (13.5mths)
email: j7smith@ciaccess.com
Monday, January 03, 2000 at 16:59:54 (EST))
Hi Mom's and Todds. It is Darleen here!
What a crappy day here in Canada, it has rained all day. Yesterday was spring jacket day, and today is back to winter coats, hats, mitts etc.
Well..... I am totally cleaning my house, and getting myself ready to move. We handed in our notice, so no turning back now. I went through mine and Dh's closests, and got rid of clothes and shoes that we don't and won't wear. My Dh is such a pain when it comes to getting rid of clothes. Next time I'm going to get rid of stuff without him knowing it. Not much is happening here today, Nolan is down for nap #2. He is coming back to himself. He still has no appetite, he would rather play with his food and make a mess all over his tray. I bought him an Elmo bowl hoping that might coax him to eat, but he dumps his food out, and chats with Elmo. He loves Elmo.

Shelly- I am from Chatham, Ontario, Canada, 1 hour from the Detroit Border. Where are you from? We are moving to Toronto, which is 3 hours from Chatham heading East towards Ottawa.

Sarah- Nolan is feeling much better, thank-you for asking. Where are you from?

Is anybody on TT from the Toronto Ontario area? We bought Nolan a Toddler RaceCar for his 1st birthday, we won't put him in it until we are settled in our new place. We will set the crib and his bed up, and give him a choice, if he is ready for the bed then we will take the crib down. I'm not sure if I'm ready for him to get out of the crib yet. He loves to chat and play with his crib toys every moring, and I love listening to him before I go and get him in the morning.
Do your toddlers still have bottles and soothers? We still give Nolan his soother, but I have tried to get rid of the bottle, but he refuse to drink out of a cup first thing in the morning, and last thing at night. He only gets 2 bottles a day, and his soother in his bed. My doctor said not to take the soother away until he gets his 2nd year molars, it will be easier then. He is down to 2 soothers instead of 4, we threw the other ones in the garbage. I saw a 3-4 year old in Wal-mart last night with a soother, and I wanted to come home and throw Nolan's in the garbage right away.
Well I better go and finsh my house cleaning before Nolan wakes.
Have a great day!!
Keep smiling! :)
Darleen & Nolan (13.5mths)
email: j7smith@ciaccess.com
Monday, January 03, 2000 at 17:00:02 (EST))
Hi from LisaB. Happy New Year!!! Nope - no happy new century or new millenum from me as unlike 99% of the population I realize neither as them actually start until 1/1/2001 (as there wasn't a year 0) - LOL!!!!

SHELLY: I got spanked as a kid and it never hurt me. My parents, however, generally made my 2 sisters and I work it out. If we were caught fighting, picking on each other, etc. and it wasn't serious they would make us hug and kiss each other. We ALWAYS begged for a spanking instead of having to fraternize with the enemy - LOL!!! I wouldn't cut Jim out completely (for the kids' sake) but I also wouldn't let them be with him much unless they are old enough to call you if they witness drug use, violence, neglect, etc. as him and GF don't sound very mature or responsible.

HELEN: No news from Crystal but I think it was this week she hoped to get "reconnected". I have to help Max push the lever to flush but he gets VERY upset if I forget and flush without him - I have to let him in to flush after I "do my business".

BIRDIE: Noah sounds ornery escaping from his diaper.

JULIANNE: Look at the instructions that came with your crib. Most are unsafe once the child is 36" tall as they can then climb out and get hurt. Max was close to 32" at his 15 month checkup so I figure I have a few more months with the crib.

PATTY: I'm sorry Jarin is still so sick. The poor little guy :-(

SUE: Cam sounds so funny on his hands and knees, filling his diaper!!!

DARLEEN: Max never really took to a pacifer. He voluntarily gave up his bottles around 10-11 months - wouldn't suck from them and wanted his cup. I know it'll never be that easy with any future kids we have!

LisaB & Max (16 months)
email: lisa_lab@hotmail.com
Monday, January 03, 2000 at 17:15:15 (EST))
Greetings from Hayley & Becca.

Glad to see you've all survived the "computer apocalypse!" San Francisco was one of the last places to see the new year, so we were feeling pretty confident by the time new years rolled around that it was much ado about nothing.

I have two sick babies today - Becca (102 degrees, won't eat, crying and sleeping constantly) and DH (an even bigger baby!) I fortunately escaped to the office - tonight's dinner should be a joy! Just trying to stay healthy and not catch this nasty flu that everyone on the board has.

One new cute addition to Becca's repetoire - after her nighttime bath, she points at her crib, says "nite nite", and once I give her her pacifier, turns right over to go to sleep. Oh, what I wouldn't have given for that when she was 3 mos. old!

Thats all for now - thanks for the greetings to the board!
Hayley & Rebecca (15 mos)
email: hayley.thompson@citicorp.com
Monday, January 03, 2000 at 20:27:25 (EST))
Hey, I've got no time to do any reading but I wanted to post a funny little story.

Dh and I went out to my mom's New Year's day to play some games.

I got out of the car with a paper bag full of pop. The bag ripped and one of the bottles hit a small stone which punctures the bottle.

It was like a gyser. Pop was spraying everywhere, all over me, the car and everything else, and hissing like crazy.

DH rescued me of course and carried everything in.

Jasmine and Cam were already in the house and when we got in there I put all our stuff away, went down the hall for something. DH does a few things then sits down on the couch to fix his coat.

My SIL askes "Where's Cody?"

Holy Crap!!!!! DH thinks and jumps up and runs to the car.

It had been about 15 minutes. Cody wasn't crying, just looking around like "hey, I've been sitting here patiently waiting. I can't get out myself, would SOMEONE please come and get me."

Okay, I'm still laughing. Poor kid. It is kinda heart wrenching though isn't it.

I guess the funny part is how heart broken and guilt ridden DH was, and STILL is. He just can't get over it and I know how he feels.

BUT, regardless of the fact that it is heart wrenching in a way, it is hillarious. I can't stop bugging him about it.

Now my SIL has something to get him back with as DH always bugs her about giving Cody a potato chip. He choked a bit on it and DH has never let her live it down.

He he he.

Oh yeah, the other thing.

We watched Touched by an Angel last night and it was at the climax of the show and DH suddenly covers his head with the blanket. (I pulled it off him though) He was crying. It was so dang sweet. He never cries. Never. Thinks he has too be macho and stuff.
LuCynda and Cody
email: lucyndah@telusplanet.net
Monday, January 03, 2000 at 22:54:58 (EST))
Hi mommies. Wow, twice in one day - I don't think that has happened since summer! Jarin is in his crib screaming his head off. DH just went in to rock him, so now he has stopped. I nursed and rocked him for twenty-five minutes but when I put him in his bed, he woke right up and started screaming. I HATE this nighttime stuff. I wish he would go to sleep easily. It breaks my heart to hear him cry. =(
**Sue: Glad you are feeling better from the flu. The Cam pooping position is way too funny. =)
**Christi: Yay for you and no blankie! Too bad I can't get Jarin to go with no boobie! LOL Thanks for the update on your mom. I hope she gets good news now that she is finished with the radiation.
**Darleen: Too funny that Nolan dumps his food to "chat" with Elmo. =) Jarin loves Elmo too. He got a Rock&Roll Elmo for Christmas. Your DH's closet sounds like mine. About a year ago, I made him get rid of some things - my God, it was like a bad 70smovie. LOL. My other son Jesse, was almost 3 when he got rid of his pacifier.
**Hayley: Sounds like Becca and Jarin have the same thing. I wish Jarin would go to bed so easily!!!!!!!
**LuCynda: Poor little Cody in the car by himself. =( LOL. Funny story though. I think we've all done stuff like that at one time or another! We wouldn't be parents if we hadn't. LOL at your DH covering his head with the blankie. How sweet is that???
**Nite-nite all.
Patty and Jarin - 16 months
email: tematheny@ctlnet.com
Monday, January 03, 2000 at 23:16:55 (EST))
Hi everyone! My little Angel was sick Sunday and Mommy has been sick since. I have been reading your posts but no energy to post.
Angel loves her rock and roll elmo too and she also loves elmo piano.
Too funny about the poop stories!!
I have another question Angel is 18 months on Jan. 7th and she has started slowing down eating. She has been teething and not feeling well for a few days. I was told this is normal???
Diane

Diane
email: jadimorgan@home.com
Tuesday, January 04, 2000 at 00:05:28 (EST))
A belated Happy New Year to all the mummies and babies!!!! Its Lynda here. Ella is in bed asleep and I am enjoying some me time.

We had a lovely Christmas and relatively quiet New Year period. We went away down the beach for a few days but unfortunately it was cold and windy so we ended up comming home early. Poor DH - his only break from work all this year and the weather up to then had been perfectly sunny and warm!! Never mind we got to relax and read a few books - Ella went a bit stir crazy though at not being able to get outside much.

It is Ella's birthday tomorrow and we are having a party on the weekend. Seems like the celebrating is never ending what with DH's b'day in December, then Christmas, then New Years and finally Ella's b'day. Gee February could be dull and boring!!!

Seems like there is a lot of sickness going around. To Rita, Helen, Patty, Lisa B, Sue, Hayley and anyone else who has a sick baby/DH or is sick themselves - all the best for a speedy recovery. Ella has been healthy for almost a month now what with the warmer weather and having a break from creche. I hope it keeps up!

Rita: - Happy 1st Birthday to Amy!! I hope the party goes well and that your whole family is well by then so that you can all enjoy it.

Helen: - I took our tree down this morning - I was dreading it because this was the first year we had a tree and I thought it would take for ever to get it packed away and was worried about whether it would all fit back in the boxes. Well it only took me 1 hr and everthing fitted perfectly (well almost everything!) - I feel great for having got that chore out of the way!

When Ella wakes up we are going to the toy-library to return some toys I borrowed before Christmas - she certainly doesn't need them now after what she got for Christmas and with a birthday coming up.

Lynda and Ella (364 days)
email: ljpjyoung@ozemail.com.au
Tuesday, January 04, 2000 at 00:20:08 (EST))
Hi to all. I am no longer a SAHM. I started my new part time job today. I can't remeber if I had told everyone or not. I went to work for friends of my Moms. They purchased a book store and will let me work when the boys are in school. School starts at 8:00 and I leave at 9:00 to drop Riley off at Jennifers. I start work between 9:30 and 10:00 and then I'm off at 2:00. $7 an hour, 4 days a week. I'm pretty happy. Jess hangs out at a friend from my highschool days for 15 min. until I get home. I'm pretty happy about it. It will ease up financial stress. Yesterday, they took inventory, so all the books were messed up. I was arranging, in alphebetical order, the religion section. I stood there trying to find the aurthor of the Bible. What an idiot!!!!!!! We all laughed hysterically.
This evening I was taking the boys out to celebrate my new job. I put on jeans and an oversized turtleneck on Riley. As he was walking away from me, I realized that he had legs. I mean some length to them. I sat there, looking at what I consider to be my baby. But, really he is a toddler now.

Julianne***Thank you for the input.

Sue***That is truly the weirdest way to do the business I've ever heard!LOL

Darlene***I live in Northern California. Montague, it's a small town.

LisaB***My parents also used to make us hug after fighting. I plan only to talk to Jim as needed for the kids. I know I can't completely erase him (Damn!!!)LOL. I just don't want to be friendly with him anymore.

Patty***If my Mom felt like that I'de feel better. But what she does is then pick on Jesse, thinking that he is a trouble maker. Tay is happy like me, But Jess has some darkness like Jim. Jim could never take teasing. He takes prozac like stuff(zoloft) for depression and his whole family has head troubles. I feel like they never paid attention to Jims troubles when he was young and I want to protect Jess and take care of his problems before they get bad. I don't like it when my oldest sis and mom treat him bad.

Helen***Riley loves to flush for me. I just know some day I 'll be in a public bathroom and he'll say bye bye poo poo out loud when I flush! Tay used to do stuff like that to me and Moriah. Her and I went shopping all the time with him. He once said to Moriah while she was in the stall "Do you have a peter? My dad has a big big peter." Th e snickers were loud!

Haylee***You are so lucky!!!! My friend used to hold her DD or put her down and as long as the blankie was over her face she'd go right to sleep. My kids have never been that easy. They also never slept in their own cribs or beds until they were 5. I can't stand to lose sleep, so I always gave in. Being a single mom now, I have a Q-size bed, so I let Riley sleep with me. Sometimes Jess too and he's 7.

Diane***Since Riley hit 18 months he eats lighter. One day he'll eat really good and the next hardly anything. Or he might eat only a small breakfast and then a huge lunch. It makes it hard, but you can't force a toddler to eat, so what choice do you have? As long as he eats at least something healthy, I try to not stress. It's probably teeth.

Birdie***New house!!!! I said it!!!!LOL
Shelly & Riley 21 months
Tuesday, January 04, 2000 at 01:00:02 (EST))
Good morning ladies! My little "baby" is 16 months old today! I can't believe it. I was looking at her/studying her last night playing, and she looked just like a little girl. Lately she has just been in the best mood at night. She's just a doll...I love her soooo much!!! :)

We finally got all of our Christmas stuff cleaned up..thank goodness. I'm so glad that's done!!!!!

BIRDIE - That was a great present for you g gm to buy NOAH another Gymboree!

RITA - HAPPY BIRTHDAY AMY!!!!! :) Hope you guys feel better soon.

JULIANNE - I meant to tell you I'm glad COLTON is feeling better! :)

HELEN - AMANDA's opening doors now? HANNAH closes them, but can't turn the door knob to open. :)

PATTY - Geez, poor little guy!!! I hope he's better soon!!!!!! That's his picture on the main page, right?

DIANE - Sorry you guys are so sick. I hope you all get better soon!!

SUE - I hope you guys are better soon, too!!! I know what you mean about DH being a weenie! But, when I get sick, he acts like I'm faking!!! HANNAH usually squats down and grunts when she's pooping. It's so funny! :)

CHRISTI - Great...NO BLANKIE!! :) How's your mom feeling?

DARLEEN - I am from Denver, Colorado. I've lived here all of my life. I love it here! HANNAH still takes a bottle before bed and first thing in the morning. I need to start working on that. I think she's attached.

HAYLEY - Sorry BECCA is sick! I hope you guys are better soon!!

LUCYNDA - Funny story about CODY! We ALL do stuff like that.

LYNDA - Good to hear from you. I was just thinking about you guys this morning. Time flies, huh??

SHELLY - Congrats on the job. Sounds perfect! Funny story about the Bible.

Well ladies, that's all for now. I do want to apologize. I sent out an email to a bunch of you for "freelotto" trying to win a car. I don't know why I did...those things NEVER work. But, I just felt the need (I know those email's are annoying, though!!!)

Hope you all have a terrific day, and hope everyone starts feeling better!!!!

Sarah and Hannah (16 months TODAY!)
email: smoore@geatoir.cfer.com
Tuesday, January 04, 2000 at 11:08:05 (EST))
Good morning moms and little ones. It's Sue and Cameron. I have to tell you guys that I think DH and I are going to be in big trouble in a few years with a "class clown" on our hands. Cam thinks he is just SOOOO funny lately. Last night, I was playing with him in his room and he slobbered me with a giant blob of drool. After I said "Yick" and wiped it away, he started cracking up. Then he kept on crawling over to me, opening his mouth on my leg, arm, or wherever else he could reach. Every time I said "yick" again, he'd starting laughing like a lunatic. At one point, he was out of breath, red in the face, and squealing he was so cracking up so hard! Sometimes he'll do other silly things and laugh at himself, then look around to see if anyone else saw him. At least he's entertaining!

I think I felt the sharp little point of his first top tooth this morning - which would probably explain all the drooling, gnawing, ear tugging, and night-waking the past couple of days. Can't believe some of the babies his age have 10+ teeth - this only makes #3 for him. Guess that's not too bad considering DH didn't cut his first tooth til he was 14 months old.

I sent out all my thank-you cards today for Cam's birthday gifts. I agree with LISAB about sending them out - just the way I was brought up. I do get annoyed when people don't have the same courtesy though.

SHELLY - congrats on your new p/t job. I also cracked up about searching for the author of The Bible! I'd really love to be able to work part-time, but can't afford it since I make a good deal more money than DH (plus carry the insurance). Maybe I'll get to be independently wealthy in my next life. LOL!

I realized last night that I hadn't set any New Year's resolutions for myself. I quit smoking last year (which was HUGE for me!), so this year I guess I should try to lose the pounds I gained from that. I also need to get myself to excercise more than twice a year. What resolutions do you ladies have for yourselves?

Gotta run out to the grocery store for some necessities at lunchtime today. One of those domestic jobs I detest! Even though it's about 30 degrees above average, it's dark and drizzly outside. Makes me want to go home and curl up on the couch with a good book - oops! I mean go to the gym and kick some butt on the treadmill!

Talk to you later!

Sue and Stand-Up Comedian Cameron
email: sbarry@key.org
Tuesday, January 04, 2000 at 12:28:30 (EST))
HISSSSSSSSSSSSS--that's Colton's new sound. Yesterday when we were watching a nature show Colton saw a snake and started hissing. I wasn't paying attention to the show and looked up to see what all the commotion was all about. I was impressed that he recognized the snake and knew the sound w/o any prompting. Evidently his latest favorite book has a snake in it and my mom has been practicing hissing w/ him.

He was quite a little bugger about going to sleep last night again. DH is such a pushover. I was cleaning my contacts so I made him put Colton to bed. Guess where he slept last night? With us of course. Maybe I need to pout and cry until I get my way too. LOL

Helen: Wow, you sure have been working hard cleaning up. I decided to leave the wreath up on the front deck. It hasn't blown to pieces yet so I figure keep it up as long as it still looks good.

Patty: Sorry to hear that Jarin is sick again. Good idea about taking him to visit the sitter to get him used to her again. I think Jarin & Colton have been conspiring together about not going to bed on time!

Sue: Great idea about where to donate some of Cam's things. Colton loves music too. DH can't stand to hear the dancing Santa anymore. We also got him a small boom-box magnet that plays the "My Carana". He loves to dance to it. My NY resolutions are to lose weight, exercise more, and find a new good job. I managed to get on the treadmill for a 1/2 hr last night. I was real proud of myself.

Christi: Yeah for Caleb giving up his blankie. Good news about your mom being done w/ radiation. I will keep her in my prayers.

Darleen: Too cute about Nolan chatting w/ Elmo. Colton dumps his plate (& food) over when he is finished eating. He is still on the bottle too. He does not like the sippy cup. He likes the bottle to chew on the nipple when he is teething. I am hoping that now that his molars are coming through he will be more willing to switch over. He still has 4 - 5 bottles a day.

Lisa: So far Colton just tries to climb into his crib not out. Good suggestion to check the height restrictions though. I will do so this weekend when I change his sheets.

Hayley: Could you send Becca over to set Colton straight about going to sleep nicely for me? LOL You sure are lucky.

LuCynda: Great story about forgetting to get Cody out. I locked Colton in the truck when he was just a few months old. We had to call the police and then a wrecker because the police couldn't break in. I went and had a second set of keys made the next day. Luckily Colton slept through the whole thing--while I cried. If he had woke up and started crying DH would have broken a window!

Diane: Colton always eats less when he is sick and when teething.

Shelly: Congrats on the p/t job. So, where did you file the Bible? LOL

Sarah: HAPPY 16 MONTHS Hannah! Time sure does fly.

Take care and get healthly everyone.


Julianne & Colton
email: jjones@batts.com
Tuesday, January 04, 2000 at 14:01:15 (EST))
Leanne Here! MERRY BELATED CHRISTMAS AND HAPPY NEW YEAR TO YOU ALL!!!

I am so sorry that I never posted sooner after my u/s. I want to thank you all for the birthday wishes which I quickly scanned! It was the BEST birthday ever! Who said turning 30 was a let down!! HAHAHA

Well lets delay this alittle longer... the techn. u/s said that she could not find out (she was a BAG!!!) and I had to KNOW! So my girlfriend and I went for a BD breakfast and I thought I would call and hopefully get into see the lady that does the u/s to find out the sex! Well thankfully I got in right away! It was wonderfull! She explained things so well and I got a great video as a keep sake! ANYWAYS!!!! This baby really wanted us to know ....it had its legs WIDE open! and it looks about 80% sure its a GIRL!!!!!!! Yes that makes 4!!! Can you believe it! We really need some help with names! HAHAHA. I actually was really excited!

Went home then and dh had bought me diamond earrings for my birthday and we dropped the girls off at my moms and went for a fancy dinner for steak and lobster!! YUM YUM, he kept on telling me how much I "glowed" so sweet! I have not looked so great with this pregnancy, but now that I am in my 5th month things are much better!

Cynthia is back to sleeping again through the night and back to no more accidents with the peeing thing! Thank goodness.

Veronica has a bit of a fever right now, but is still her smily self - so sweet! I am so glad we get to have another girl to dress up. The girls are so excited about another baby sister!

So I am aglow with happiness right now! Baby is finally moving around great! Thankfully and I have another drs. appointment today so we will see what due date she gives me as I was further than I thought!

Now that things have calmed down I will post more often. We had a wonderfull visit with Romaine and her adorable girls! I miss them already! I never feel that I get to spend enough time with her! Thankfully she will be back in March!

Talk to you ladies soon.. :)
Leanne with Baby girl #4!!!! I love girls
Tuesday, January 04, 2000 at 14:11:53 (EST))
Happy New Year!! It's Moriah! Hope everyone is doing okay. I'm so happy to have the big Y2K hype behind us! I'm so SICK of hearing about it.

Alex is finally kicking the phuemonia (sp?) that he had over Christmas. So he's finally eating again & not throwing up from coughing. But now he needs to gain ome of the weight back he lost :(

He is sitting pretty good now although for not very long until he "throws" himself backwards just to make sure I'm there. He loves to grab my hair on the way down OUCH! But he thinks it's very funny! Of course I get a big slobbery kiss at the end so it's worth it.

On to the personals!

#1 I think we need to have an intervention! Sarah just doesn't love Hannah enough! From her posts I'm worried about the amount of attention & love that Hannah gets. I'm calling childrens services right now! LOL LOL LOL LOL!

Beth - I'm sorry your grandmother died on Christmas :( But like you said she's in a better place.

Sue - LOL at the class clown!

Patty - too bad that you threw away the $ :(

Rita - Happy Birthday to both Amy & Maddie! I'm sorry you guys are so sick. There's just nasty stuff going around here too.

Helen - What poem are you talking about? I'm confused?? I would be pissed too about your DD seeing AP. Although I have to admit (shamefully) that I cracked up at that movie. Geoff calls Alex Mini Me.

Lisa B - I'm trying to teach Alex to "touch Kitty nice" also. We're not having too much luck. Geoff thought it was funny to teach him to grab her when Geoff would yell "Get Her". So now we're dealing with that. Luckily Kitty is pretty tolerant & since Alex still isn't mobile enough to catch her she's safe - FOR NOW!

Christie - I was wondering how your mom was - thanks for the update. I hope things continue to go well.

LuCynda - too funny about leaving Cody in the car.

Lynda Happy Birthday to Ella tomorrow!

Alright I better get going. I have an order of 75 Zandy Cards to work on this morning. We still need to get our website up, but we had no time over the holidays to sit down & work on it.

HUGS!
Moriah & Alex (14.9999 months)
email: geoffandmoriah@msn.com
Tuesday, January 04, 2000 at 14:15:35 (EST))
Rebecca here...

Happy New Year everyone! Sorry it took me so long to get here. I've been doing alot of running around and haven't had a minute to sit down! I skimmed the posts and have a couple of personals.

Darleen - Paige is the same age as Nolan and still has her bottle in the morning and at night. She doesn't drink as much from her cup and I have a hard enough time getting 20oz in her a day. She is quite profficient at her cup, she just dawdles and plays with it more. I also enjoy the cuddle 1st thing in the morning and at night. Paige also has a soother. It's for sleeping. She does spit it out once she's asleep. DH and I haven't decided when to take it away from her. It really does help her relax. I can tell you our dr says that the bottle and soother are fine until around 2 years (which gives us a little time!).

Sue - My resolutions were to play with Paige more, treat my husband better (he's been my outlet lately), and to try to eat better. We'll see how long that will last!!!

Leanne - congrats on the girl! I secretly would love another girl when we decide to get pregnant again. Then DH would have to agree to 3 children (to try for a boy! hee hee).

Well, that's all for me. Paige is doing good and I'm okay. Planning to have a quiet day at home today. Don't have to go anywhere except grocery shopping tonight. Hopefully Paige will co-operate! Ta Ta For Now!
Rebecca & Paige (13+ months)
email: burn@canadawired.com
Tuesday, January 04, 2000 at 14:45:20 (EST))
Hi! SARAH again...real quick.

LEANNE - Congrats!! Oh my gosh, I can't believe you're gonna have 4 GIRLS!!!!!! I'll bet you can't wait until about 16/17 years from now! You're gonna have a hand full! At least you have plenty of clothes!! LOL LOL :) :)

MORIAH - I don't know why, but your post about me loving HANNAH made me cry. :) I do just love her so much!!! I guess it sort of does come across that way in my posts! :)LOL

Well ladies, I'll talk to you all tomorrow!!
Sarah again!
Tuesday, January 04, 2000 at 15:26:20 (EST))
Good Morning Everyone,

Sorry I haven't read the posts yet, but I will soon.

Just a quick thank you to all who responded to my rocking question.
Well I just called the daycare (Caelen's 1st day). And they said he was sound asleep, that they just laid him in the crib and he went straight to sleep. Imagine that, I have been trying for 14 months, and they do it the first try. Maybe it was just a fluke???

Any way I must go, but I'll be back.
Paula, Caelen and Kyla (must include Kyla too, or I feel guilty)
Tuesday, January 04, 2000 at 15:55:16 (EST))
Hi from LisaB. The Parents as Teachers lady came out last night. Her 2 "activities" were playing with a tub full of lima beans and kitchen utensils and putting lids off juice cans through a slit in the top of a decorated coffee can. Max LOVED them both. He hadn't see the lady for 4 months so it took awhile before he warmed up to her again. Dinner, bedtime, etc. was late because of her visit so DH decided to skip Max's bath. Max did fine through the entire bedtime routine UNTIL it was time for us to go cuddle in bed. He ran in the bathroom, pushed back the shower curtain, and SOBBED. I got him calmed down by putting him, jammies and all, in an empty tub. He walked around for awhile and then backed up to me like he does when he wants out. I wrapped him in a towell and acted like I was drying his hair and then he happily went to bed - LOL!!!!

DH is sick and being a big WEENIE. I got chewed out last night because I didn't feed the pup yesterday morning (nevermind that I got up, got in the shower, and Max woke up the second I got out of the shower so I was dressing and feeding him until DH got up). Then this morning he called me "uncaring" because I had the nerve to gripe about him burping right in my face as I was changing a diaper (it "escaped"), leaving a kleenix filled with snot and phlem on the couch where Max could easily get to it, etc. I try to be sympathetic when he's sick but it really does seem like he goes out of his way to be disgusting ... even when he feels good.

HAYLEY: I'm impressed that Rebecca goes to sleep so well on her own.

LuCYNDIA: Poor Cody, all forgotten in the car - LOL! How funny that DH tried to hid his crying.

I forget who it was - but also funny about looking your little one in the truck.

SHELLY: Tay and the peter comment was TOO funny. I remember Moriah posting at PT about a nephew commenting loudly in a dressing room about her thong underware - I'm guessing that was Tay also!!!! LOL

RITA: Happy birthday to Amy.

SUE: Cam sounds hilarous with his "yick" and laughing! I made a list of things I want to accomplish by 12/31/00 (versus actual resolutions) - the main "to do" are update Max's baby book, get pregnant, and lose the 10 pounds I've gained since weaning Max (unless I get preggers, of course!).

SUE: Yeah on baby girl #4!!! Was DH a little disappointed that he wasn't getting a son this time?

LisaB & Max (16 months)
email: lisa_lab@hotmail.com
Tuesday, January 04, 2000 at 16:03:00 (EST))
OOPS - My last "comment" was supposed to be addressed to Leanne, not Sue!

LisaB
Tuesday, January 04, 2000 at 16:05:02 (EST))
Hi, it's Christi

Well, I am still hanging in ther with no blanket, it sure would be easier to give it to him, with Dh so sick still, but then I will just have to do it all over later. We got our snow, only 2-3 inches, but it will do, I hope to get the kids out to play tonight after DC kids leave. I think Caleb may enjoy it. We have a baby sled and a hill in our back yard, so I think it will be good.
I got out a shopping cart last night to go with the kitchen set, and after they got done fighting with it, Lexi put Caleb in it (is legs were hanging over) and pushed him all over the house. They had a blast, all night they did this. It kept them busy.

DARLEEN***I wish I lived closer, does your move put you any closer to the states?

PATTY***Is that Jarin on the front page of TT? I was going to ask who it was, that picture was so cute!

HAYLEY***I feel for you on the sick DH part, they are truly woosies! Hope Becca feels better soon, she sounds so cute going "night-night"

DIANE***Hope you are feeling better soon!

LYNDA***Happy B-Day Ella! I wish my tree would have come down that easily! I am still not sure what DH did to the lights, but I wanted to strangle him with the wires when I was done!

SHELLY***Glad you found a job that lets you work around school schedules! That is the kind of job I want, a flexible one! Good for you!

SARAH***Happy 16 months Hannah! Mom is feeling pretty good so far, thanks!

SUE***Cute! Cameron sounds like a little funny guy. Good for you to stop smoking, I have tried to help DH, but we havent gotten all the way there yet.

LEANNE***YEAH for another girl!Poor DH in a house FULL of girls

MORIAH***Glad Alex is feeling better!!!! Good for him sitting up

REBECCA*** HI! :-)

Guess I better stop now, see you later!



Christi & Caleb
email: plumbs@coiinc.com
Tuesday, January 04, 2000 at 16:27:44 (EST))
Quick hello from Birdie. Lots of ice today but still no snow. No snow in Maine in January! It just isn't right. Noah is never going to get to ride in his sled. Anyway, tons of work to do. Sorry no real personals. Welcome to the new moms on here and the old moms who have rejoined.
Moriah- Secret handshake.

Take care.
Birdie and Noah 13 months
email: LJU777@AOL.COM
Tuesday, January 04, 2000 at 16:34:38 (EST))
Happy New Year all. So glad that there were no major Y2K glitches. I didn't really think there would be but with all the hype it had me thinking. . . Sounds like most of you had a very low key new year. We had a GREAT time at our international party. Ended up with about 50-60 people or so. I drank too much, but was responsible about pacing myself so that I didn't pass out or get sick. I got a good buzz at the first house and them limited myself to one alcoholic drink per house after that (one per hour). I was the Karaoke queen!! Another girl and I hogged the mike all night. I'm sure the other people were sick of hearing me sing off key. Another guy got the mike later and he was TERRIBLE (as if I was Whitney Houston or anything LOL), but I went up to him while he was singing and took the mike out of his hand and told him to stop singing because he was off key!! LOL. Oh the things we do when we've had too much. Allison spent the night at my parent's house. It was nice being able to be irresponsible for once. Don't get me wrong, I love Allison more than anything, but it was nice to be able to do adult things without worrying about a little one.

Questions for all of you with older kids. When did you switch them from high chair to booster seat and from crib to big girl bed? I'm not ready to make the bed switch yet, but I think Allison could handle a booster seat now. What are your opinions?

Romaine - no my g-ma did not have cancer. Her death was very unexpected to us all as she was very active, healthy, etc. She died in her sleep. Thanks for the words of sympathy.

Tracey -good to hear from you. Can't wait until you are with us again all the time.

Helen - I know what you mean about trying to organize dogs and kids in one picture except I have trouble keeping Allison sitting still. I can tell the dog to sit and stay and she's so well trained that she won't move. Allison on the other hand is not so well trained LOL!!


Birdie - Allison is the big diaper off queen as well. She can now undress herself completely too. Over Christmas we were sitting in my IL's kitchen and Allison was in the den playing with her new toys. She got really quiet and then a couple minutes later she came into the kitchen completly nude except for her socks with her wet diaper in one hand a clean one in the other. I wish we'd had a video camera. It was too funny.

Sue - Isn't it funny how you can be sick for days and not eat and still not lose any weight, but then you can merely look at a piece of fudge and gain 5 lbs. Life's not fair!

Lucynda - I was LOL at you leaving Cody in the car. Way funny that he was just sitting there so calmly!

Sarah - Happy 16 mo. bday to Hannah!

Julianne - Colton sounds so cute with his hissing! Allison favorite animal sound is still the good old dog!!

Shelly - so where DID you end up putting the Bible???

Well, gotta go. Talk to you ladies later.
Beth and Allison (19 months)
email: bobwite@msn.com
Tuesday, January 04, 2000 at 16:51:57 (EST))
Hi Beth again

Lisa B - just read your post about Max in the tub with the PJ's on!! That was too funny! Talk about getting into a routine! Glad your little trick worked though!
Beth
Tuesday, January 04, 2000 at 16:57:55 (EST))
Hello from Rita

Well, I made it into work today, but am wishing that I was still at home. DH is at home today since Maddy's fever is hanging on. I just want us all to be well! Amy has been sleeping in her infant seat next to me these past few nights. The teething and blocked nose are too much for her to lay flat in the crib, I guess. I wonder how hard it will be to get her back into her crib.

My baby is one today and I won't be holding any more little ones of my own. Boo hoo. The good news is that DH's nephew and his wife are PG again, with twins! This woman is so tiny and doesn't look PG yet even though she is 16 weeks. Their first baby was born a month early, too. The doctor is already talking about her induction in the eighth month. So, there will be some more babies around to hold.

Happy fourteen months to Emilee and sixteen months to Hannah!

Lynda and Ella - Happy First Birthday Ella!

Well, I had better get going. Take care everyone!
Rita & Amy
email: ritad@home.com
Tuesday, January 04, 2000 at 17:34:41 (EST))
Hi, Romaine and Saba here!

It has snowed and snowed and snowed here since we got back! It looks simply beautiful!

Not much happening here-both girls are asleep rght now. Mommy is having a little break!

We did not get up 'til 9! No complaining here!

Darleen-Saba was off her bottle at 13 mos. I suppose it could have been a little sooner, but we did not start her on milk 'til she was 1 year b/c of allergies and I "weaned" her onto the milk. As soon as she was on milk, she was off the bottle. I never put milk in the bottle, only formula. I wnated her to associate all other drinks w/ a cup. I found that it helped her to transfer over. Regarding the soother, she still has one for sleep only. I swore that my kids would never have one past a year, but it did not work that way. Since about 10 mos. it has only been for sleep. She knows it and puts it on her night-stand when she wakes up! She is beginning to wean herself from it. When this one is worn out, that will be it! Not much time left for it... Good luck!

Haylee-Sorry Becca and Dh are sick! The girls are getting better, less snot is around... I love it when Saba goes down like nothing. She ususally does, but goes through spells of it taking hours to fall asleep!

LuCynda-LOL on pop and Cody! A relief that all is well and you can laugh about it! I used to worry that we would forget DD2 when she was first born b/c we were not used to 2! DH will have to take a head count:)

Diane-Sorry that you've been ill as well as your little one. Saba's eating the last few days has been the pits as well. She skipped lunch entirely 2 days and just nibbled for the other meals and snacks. There really is no need to worry unless they are failing to thrive-losing weight, not getting better, etc. It is amazing that they will thrive on apparently nothing at times!

Shelly-Congrats on your p/t job! It is so sad to see that toddler grow up! Is Riley your last? I am so sad watching DD2 growing so quickly! I am really drinking in her babyhood-it is so fleeting and she is likely our last! Riley and Saba are very close! She will be 2 March 11.

Lisa B and Max-Get well from those colds. The snot sure can fly! Doncha love the shellaced look their faces get from smearing their noses?!:)

Child spacing-We were planning about 2 years. The girls are 18 mos. I went off the pill early giving myself some time not expecting it to be first time! It was also to allow time b/c things do happen.I lost 2 b4 having Saba. I did not want them too far apart, but I was also taking our ages into account as well. I am 32 and DH is 35. We did not want to wait too long between.

Good day everyone!
Romaine and Saba 21 mos
email: rrantry@yahoo.ca
Tuesday, January 04, 2000 at 18:35:46 (EST))
Hi! It's Martha sneaking over for a quick question.

I just bought an avocado for Mary beth, but I am not sure how I should prepare it for her. I remember someone from way back said that her girls loved avocado. I believe it was Rita. Am I right? Should I peel it and steam it? Slice it, steam it, and scrape out the insides? Did you mix it with anything else?

Thanks in advance. I hope Mary beth likes it...it cost me $1.50 for just one!

Take care, everyone!
Martha & Mary Beth ( 9 months)
email: eaufuldi@cub.kcnet.org
Tuesday, January 04, 2000 at 21:48:18 (EST))
HEY eveyrone!!! Long time, no post!! We got back from our Christmas trip on New Year's Eve. Elizabeth and I were both sick, so there was not a whole heck of alot happening here! I think we are both finally getting back to our normal healhy selves! I HOPE!

My grandfather is down in Houston for testings. I'm just trying to be very hopeful and optimistic.

We had a pretty good Christmas. I ate entirely way too much and am really paying for it now. Oh well. Nothing much new going on here really. My DH has been bugging me like crazy baby #2!!! I guess you might add us to the TTC list. Which reminds me, LISAB, are you expecting yet?

Not much else is happening... I hope you all are doing great and had a very safe and happy holiday! Happy 2000!!
Long lost Kelli & Elizabeth, almost 18 months!!!
email: rkncs@aol.com
Tuesday, January 04, 2000 at 22:04:14 (EST))
Hi mommies. I have had the day from hell. I took Jarin to the babysitter today at 8:00. When I picked him up at 12:45, he was still crying. =( Four hours and forty-five minutes of crying!!! He made the sobbing noises all the way home and was clinging to me for about two hours. He didn't fall asleep for his nap until we went to pick up Jesse and he was in the car. The sitter was stressed out and said she didn't know what to do with him. The other babies still needed fed and the older kids were upset with him crying. She said they were calling him "Crybaby" and saying "All he does is cry". =( =( =( I can't even begin to tell you guys how sick to my stomach this has made me. I cried all afternoon and even just thinking about it is upsetting me again. I can't stand the thought of someone making fun of my baby or saying hurtful things, even if he can't understand them yet. Then the sitter told me that she would be getting another new baby in 2 weeks and she didn't know what she was going to do. That would make five babies who had to be fed and the rest of the kids over 12 months ate table food. Jarin refused. I think just because he wanted to be held. I love my sitter - she is a good friend, but I just think there are too many kids there and Jarin is overwhelmed. I figured that there are five babies under one year and another four under two, 2 two year olds, a 3 year old, 4 year old, and 4-5year olds there when Jarin is there. Granted, not all these kids are there every day, but there is a minimum of ten there every day. I am taking Jarin to my sister tomorrow (it is her day off) and I talked to SIL about possibly watching him here at our house 1-2 times a week. What do you guys think? Especially you, Christi, as a day care provider? I only want what is best for my baby. I don't want him to suffer and I can't stand the thought of him being so upset all day long. His little voice was even hoarse today from all of the crying. On that note, I'll get on to the personals.
**Rebecca: I was going to ask where you've been and then I saw your post. Glad you are doing ok.
**Diane: Jarin has definitely slowed down on his eating and he is 16 months.
**Lynda: Happy Birthday to Ella! Thanks for the wishes for recovery for Jarin. He is doing better today, healthwise.
**Shelly: You and DH and I both in stitches trying to find out who the author of the bible was. So funny!!! =) And believe me, I needed a good laugh today. I'm sorry your mom treats Jess so bad. That's awful. Also LOL at Tay's comment about "My daddy has a big, big peter!" What a riot.
**Sarah: Happy 16 month birthday to Hannah!!! Yep, that is Jarin on the main page. I didn't even know he was there! I had to go check it out after I read your post. =)
**Sue: LOL at Cam drooling on you and laughing. I'll be he will be a cute class clown. =) I haven't even thought of a New Year's Resolution yet. =(
**Julianne: "Hiss". I bet that is cute coming out of his little mouth. Jarin said "Meow" tonight during his breathing treatment. I couldn't believe it. He was looking at a picture of a kitten and said "meow". So adorable. LOL at your DH being a pushover with Colton. That is very sweet.
**Leanne: Congrats on having another girl. Man, I don't envy you when they are all teenagers! One is enough! LOL
**Moriah: Glad to hear that Alex is getting over his pneumonia. I bet he can melt your heart with his little slobbery kisses. =) LOL at your comments to Sarah. What good mommies we have on this board. =) Congrats on having a big order for Zandy cards.
**LisaB: The story about Max in his jammies in the tub is too precious. You definitely needed a video of that one. And GROSS about DH's Kleenex around the house! ACK!
**Christi: What would you think if you were my dcp? I think she will probably be glad to be rid of him. =( Such a cute story about Lexi pushing Caleb around. I'll be they'll have lots of fun growing up together.
**Beth: AKA Whitney Houston: So, you had a just a little to drink, huh? LOL. I can't remember the last time I was toasted. Sounds like you had a lot of fun at your parties. Too cute about Allison walking in naked, except of course for her socks.
**Ok, sad Patty signing off. See you all tomorrow.
Patty and Jarin - 16 months
email: tematheny@ctlnet.com
Tuesday, January 04, 2000 at 23:52:30 (EST))
Just re-read the posts and wanted to say a quick hello and welcome back to Kelli and Elizabeth!!!
Patty
Wednesday, January 05, 2000 at 00:01:07 (EST))
Hi, it's Debbie.

Ok, this is a order from THE OLD MOM! All Mommies and Babies have to get well now. We have way too many sick ones. Please get well everyone.

My little Maddie is feeling alot better. Her eye infection has cleared up, but we are having a real hard time getting her to take her medicine. She is getting spoiled with chocolate milk, milk shakes...you get the picture.

Emilee is still healthy. Knock on wood. It must be all the good breast milk she continues to suck out of me. I can't wait to stop doing this. I kept telling dh that when Emilee turned 1 year old, I would have her weaned. Ha Ha Ha Does it ever end?

Emilee turned 14 months old today. She is the sweetest and best baby. We are so blessed to have her and Maddie in our lives. I love them so much.

Rita - Happy First Birthday Amy!!! Hope you and the girls are better very soon.

Sarah - Happy 16 month Birthday Hannah! Maddie is doing much better, thanks.

Lynda - Happy Birthday Ella.

Patti - You tell Jarin the old mom sent out a order for all sick babies to get well. Hope that helps. Maddie is feeling much better, thanks.

It's time for bed, my eyes are closing. Everyone take care and talk to you soon.

Debbie, Maddie & Emilee
email: debngreg@qnet.com
Wednesday, January 05, 2000 at 02:30:05 (EST))
Hi its Lynda here.

We had a great day today - a few presents for Ella to open this morning and then this afternoon we had our playgroup. It was nice to see all the babies again after a fw weeks off - its amazing how much the little ones can change in such a short space of time!

Unfortunately the good times are over now and its back to work tomorrow - not that I mind work that much but I was kind of getting into the swing of being on holidays!

On to some personals:


Caleb (& Christi) - thanks for Ella's b'day card. You have a great time sledding in your backyard sweetie.

Hannah (& Sarah) - thak you also for Ella's b'day card. Happy 16 mth b'day to you! (and to Sarah - I loved the quote - I printed it out and stuck it on the computer)

Sue - you description of Cameron slobbering and carrying on was so well written I could picture it happening and it cracked me up with laughter - DH even called out to see what was so funny! As far as new year resolutions - I am training for a short-course triathalon in mid March. I find it easier to excercise if there is a reason for it. So far things have gone well - but DH has been around to mind Ella for me. I know it will be more difficult to exercise when we are both back at work - but it helps me to think of how painful the triathalon will be if I don't put in the time now!

Leanne - wow! 4 girls! What ages are the other 3 ? Sounds like you had a wonderful 30th b'day.

Moriah - glad to hear Alex is getting over the pneumonia. I hope he gets back into his food and starts stacking on some weight. Thanks for the b'day wishes for Ella.

LisaB - the "dry bath" story was very funny and quite touching. 5 minutes after reading about Cameron I was laughing aloud again at Max's antics. It is so sweet that he just wanted to follow his bed time routine.

Beth - Ella also had a sleep over on NYE whilst DH and I went out. This was the first time we had left her with anyone else all night. I felt a little guilty - mainly for my poor mum having to get up and feed her at 4:30am - but I also enjoyed the brief feeling of freedom. We just went to some fiends for dinner and a few drinks but it was a late night and sleeping in til 11:00 am was an absolute joy!

Rita - thanks for Ella's b'day wishes. I hope Amy had a good day too.

Martha - Ella (and DH and I) loves avacado. I generally just give it to her au natural ie cut the fruit in half, remove the stone and scoop out the flesh. You can then either mash it (sometimes with some banana) or cut it up as (messy but possible) finger food.

Debbie - Happy 14 mths b'day to Emilee.

Patty - Jarin crying and being upset for so long made me feel sad. Is there just one carer at your day care centre? If so 10 kids sounds way too much to me. In Australia it is legislated that the maximum number of kids per carer is 5 to 1 if the kids are under 12 months. I am not sure what the maximum number of kids is when they are older. But I even thought 1 person looking after 5 kids was pushing things - maybe because I have only one, I couldn't imagine coping with 5.

Bye for now



Lynda and Ella (1 today!)
email: ljpjyoung@ozemail.com.au
Wednesday, January 05, 2000 at 07:24:34 (EST))
Hi! It's Martha again. Pretty soon I will be over here on a regular basis. Ten months is creeping up on us (this weekend). She is crawling everywhere now, and she just started pulling up onto her knees.

Lynda - thank you for the tips on the avocado. Sounds easy. I like guacamole, but I have never tried it plain. Big birthday wishes to Ella!

Patty - I read about poor Jarin's experience at daycare. Is it 10 kids with only one adult? I would say there are too many kids, too. I am sure the sitter would not mind if you took Jarin out and found some other place for him. Hugs to YOU and Jarin. And good luck.

Take care, everyone!



Martha & Mary Beth ( 9 months)
email: eaufuldi@cub.kcnet.org
Wednesday, January 05, 2000 at 09:43:37 (EST))
Hello from Helen&Amanda!!
Sorry I haven't been taking notes- its getting busy here again- nice to see everyone getting back--

Welcome back TRACEY---And KELLI!!

Welcome new moms- I think there's one or two?? Amand so sorry so many are sick-hope everyone is well soon!!!

Influenza seems to be peaking since its been on the news this past week or so- some states have their waiting rooms packed and sending others away.

The kids are back in school today- were home yesterday sick- Amanda is feeling better- still has a runny nose but the fever is gone but I think her teeth are bothering her- found welts where her eye teeth are comming in. :O(

PATTY- Sorry Jarin is not liking the sitter- maybe too 'busy' for him since he is not feeling well?? Hope it works out w/your sis and other relative and you have family caring for him-- Here your only allowed one under the age of 1 in your care and a max of 5-total for one adult( I may be off a little, maybe 4-6??) But thats a lot of kids to care for. How does she keep her sanity?? :O)

Amanda, over the holidays has scribbled all over the walls w/a pencil-- So I scrubbed w/cleaner and there's no paint in a spot or two--she points to the spot and says over and over--UH-OH....UH-OH....UH-OH....then when we ask-'did you do that??' she shakes her head yes!!She also drew all over the leather sofa w/DD's 'milky pen', thankfully I caught her and it all came off in time without drying.

Well I am trying to balance the checkbook, pay bills, and file things. The assessors from the town hall are comming this afternoon to re-measure the house-we got our tax billand the measurements were wrong- which adds up to lots of sq. footage that we're paying for that we don't have-- so I have to pick up and straighten- even the closets--UHHH!
I'll check in later-Have a good day!!
Helen&Amanda@17mos(#3)
Wednesday, January 05, 2000 at 10:23:12 (EST))
Hi from LisaB. DH is still puny with his cold so I gave Max his bath last night. DH generally does bathes; I hadn't done one for probably a month. I got all excited and called DH to see Max as he was touching my shampoo bottle on the ledge and then rubbing his body (like he was lathering up) and he was pushing the lid to my hairspray (a cheapo bath toy!) under the water so air would come through the little hole in it and then the lid would make a squelling noise. DH said "what's the big deal, he's been doing both of those for WEEKS". HELLO, I'm his Mom and I would like to KNOW when he learns new "tricks". Men just don't get all this, do they? LOL!!

BETH: If Allison can take off a wet diaper and bring you a dry one, I'm guessing the potty training is going well!!!

ROMAINE: We're close in ages. I'm 33 and DH is 36. Our ages are a MAJOR reason why we're working on conceiving baby #2.

KELLI: Welcome back!!! We didn't start "unprotected" sex until early December due to my nasal surgery so we've only been TTC for a month now. AF is due on Friday so we'll know soon if we've had any success. I know I've overly optimistic but I'm going to buy a pg test when I go shopping tonight!!!

PATTY: I'm sorry Jarin was so upset yesterday. I bet it was as hard as you as him, especially when you had to drop him off this morning to go to work. I would definitely do whatever it takes to find a new sitter. #1 - She has WAY too many kids. In Missouri one sitter can only watch 4 unrelated kids. 10+ a day is way too many for any one person to handle. Jarin is likely upset as he goes from being "important" at home to being a "number" at the sitters. He's likely not getting the individual attention he needs. My sitter plays with the kids, does "school" (this week Max is working on purple and circles), and with 4 kids (including only 1 infant) she's able to spend extra time with any sick or fussy kids. #2 - Your sitter may be a good friend but she's not very good with kids if she let the others make fun of or pick on Jarin. My sitter does not tolerate such behavior. The kids receive a "warning" if they hit, slam, bad mouth, etc. The second time they have to go to the "time out" rug for 1 minute. The third time they are "banished" to a playpen or the downstairs where she can see them but they are separated from the other kids for 5 minutes. #3 - Once again, I know the sitter is your friend but it sounds like she was hinting rather strongly that she doesn't want to keep Jarin. If that is the case she likely will develop an "attitude" towards him if she continues to watch him. If he cries she'll assume he's being whiny versus checking to see if he's uncomfortable, hurt, sick, needs extra attention, etc. I hope I'm not being too preachy or judgmental but I really think Jarin would be better off with another sitter.

LYNDA: Triatholon? You go, girl!!! I'm really impressed as I can't see to find the time to even go for simple walks anymore! (I know, I know ... I need to make it a priority and MAKE the time).

LisaB & Max (16 months)
email: lisa_lab@hotmail.com
Wednesday, January 05, 2000 at 10:37:48 (EST))
Wow busy day yesterday! Christi here

I just have to tell you all, my son is so stinking cute I can't get over it!I guess maybe today because he looks all boy in his jeans and his football jersey, and that new hair cut is finally growing on me(I was upset because she cut of his longer baby hair in the front). He is learning to keep up with the bigger kids so well too. Okay I am done bragging.
Well, I feel kind of bad for getting sick of DH and his cold, turns out her has a nasty case of strep. Hopefully he will go back to work tomorrow!

PATTY***OK... Does this ONE woman keep 10 kids? 5 babies, no way! When everyone is here I have 6 kids (includes mine),sometimes it is too much at meal times etc. I can not even imagine feeding 5 babies! (Caleb is the youngest one here, but I have a PG mom) If she is very "fed up", I say pull him. If she does it for $ she will be mad, but you have to think of Jarin. You just never know what may happen in a moment of freaking out, ya know? I also think she should have called you instead of let him cry for almost 5 hours. I am kind of mad at this lady and I don't even know her. Keep me updated, I will be curious. I will keep you and Jarin in my prayers!

PAULA*** Yeah for Caelen going to sleep easily for the sitter! Hopefully he will continue!

BETH*** High chair to booster, my DD waited until 2, I have DC kids who swithced at 15-18 months, depends on what you want to do.
Crib to toddler bed, DD went at 18 months--she did wonderful! I can't even imagine puting Caleb in his at 18 months, he is not as "mature" as she was. Good Luck!

DEBBIE*** Glad Maddie is feeling better!(Is Maddie short for Madeline? That would be Caleb is he were a girl) HAPPY 14 MONTHS TO EMILEE!!!

Well, since I am here early today maybe i will make it back again this afternoon!

Christi & Caleb 14 months
email: plumbs@coiinc.com
Wednesday, January 05, 2000 at 10:42:24 (EST))
Patty*** I just read Lisa's post, I didn't know you were friends with your provider. I have sat for friends before, and we lost all friendliness when her kid wouldn't behave and I didn't have the guts to tell her I wanted her to find a new provider.(OK, most of this happened "after hours" and at their house--very long story). Here if you are not licensed you can have 3 un related kids (more if they are related)if you are-- up to 12 kids total, but it is broken down by ages. I did not mean to infer that your sitter would harm Jarin, its just that you hear of moms, or sitters who reach their breaking point, and do something terrible. I think it would be a good idea to search for someone. Okay, Bye!!
Christi again
Wednesday, January 05, 2000 at 10:58:20 (EST))
Hi!
No time to post, really, but I just wanted to say hello to everyone. I've been reading the last few days keeping up with you all and just haven't had the time to type anything.

I went with my friend to help coach her in labor yesterday. Poor thing never made it past 2 cm!! and had a c-section. Her baby was in distress and it never would have worked out if she'd gone into real labor. Her baby (Ethan) looked beautiful and very healthy! I can't wait to go visit them!

Okay- now that I'm typing, I'm making time to post!!! :)

Patty- So sorry to hear about Jarin's horrible time at the sitter. He had time off with you over the holidays, right? They always need time to adjust back, but I do think Christi is right. Sounds like he needs a smaller group with kids just his own age. I wish you the best!

Tracey- Welcome back!!

Kelli- Welcome back!!

Rita- Happy bithday to Amy!!

Lynda- Happy birthday to Ella!!

gotta go!
Sarah g and Isaac
Wednesday, January 05, 2000 at 11:49:44 (EST))
Happy Hump Day from Sue and Cameron. The sun is finally out today - it was so dark and drab the past couple of days here in Mass. I might even be inspired to take a walk at lunchtime!

Like BIRDIE, I also need a new, bigger house! Our house is tiny to begin with, but was okay for just Tom and I. It was really crammed when Cam was a small baby with the swing, portable bassinet, changing table, etc. I thought it would get better as he outgrew some of that equipment, but now find that every bit of space is taken up with toys! I bought some plastic crates and storage boxes yesterday and attempted to tame some of the disaster, but don't think I was too successful. I'll take another round at it again tonight.

Cam's new "trick" these past couple of days is to put his hands up over his head when you ask him how big he is. Too cute! He even tries to stretch and make himself taller. Not an easy task for a little guy who doesn't stand up by himself! It really does seem like he learns something new or masters a new skill just about every day now. Sometimes I could swear I can see all the lights flashing in his brain when I watch him. I've also found him studying people's mouths when they talk to him and trying to imitate their movements. He only says a few things at this point (my favorite is "kiki" for kitty), but I have a feeling we won't be able to quiet him down once he starts!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ELLA!

LYNDA - triathalon? I am totally impressed and in awe of anyone who could even contemplate such a thing! My idea of "training" is parking at the far end of the parking lot and giving myself a longer walk into the grocery store. LOL!

PATTY - poor little Jarin! I found myself upset after reading your post thinking about him crying all that time. I do agree with most of the other moms that I'd be looking for a new provider. It sounds like there are too many kids for Jarin and for her to give him (or any of them for that matter) the attention he needs. Her comments make it sound as if she just doesn't want to work hard enough to help Jarin adjust.

LISAB - ++++++ thoughts for you this week. It seems AF has taken up residence at my house - I'll even volunteer to hold her hostage so she doesn't visit you on Friday! Good luck!

Talk more tomorrow - off to one of our regional offices for the afternoon. Smile!




Sue and Cameron
email: sbarry@key.org
Wednesday, January 05, 2000 at 13:26:08 (EST))
Hey everyone. Two days in a row!! That's unusual for me! Lately I'm lucky if I get on here twice a week. Oh where are the carefree days when I could check in two and three times a day!! I'm convinced that's why the pregnancy board is so busy all the time. They don't have little ones to chase around yet. LOL! Allison is starting to regress (is that a word??) a little on her potty training. I'm not worried about that right now though. As long as she is trained sometime around her 2nd birthday (before or after)I'll be okay. I think now she is just too busy playing with all her new toys, etc to be stopping and going to the potty. She will go without protesting if I take her in there, but if I ask she will always say "no" even if she really does have to.

Rita - hope all you guys get well soon. Seems like you guys always have troubles when the winter gets here.

Kelli - welcome back!! Sorry you guys have been sick. I will be praying for your g-pa.

Patty - your story about Jarin just made my heart hurt too. I agree with others that she just has too many kids to look after. It does sound to me like maybe she is starting to resent Jarin or get fed up with him, etc and that you should start looking for a new provider. My sitter would never allow Allison to cry for that long. I know that you are in a job where it would be pretty hard for you to just leave during the day if she called and with your DH being a trooper he is probably in the same boat, but she really should have called after the first 2 hours or so. Good luck. I'll be praying that you find a good sitter.

Debbie - happy 14 months to Emilee.

Lynda - Happy bday to Ella!

Martha - good to hear from you. Look forward to you joining us over here soon!

Helen - Amanda sounds too cute with her Uh-oh! I have to keep pens out of Allison's reach or else she would draw all over everything as well.

Lisa B- Max sounds too cute with his "new" bath tricks. Sometimes men are clueless aren't they??

Christi - all right!! No bragging allowed on this sight! LOL. Just kidding we love to hear of mommied that love their babies.

well gotta get back to work!
Beth and Allison (19 months)
email: bobwite@msn.com
Wednesday, January 05, 2000 at 13:36:31 (EST))
Leanne Here!

Well drs. appointment went well yestereday gained another 4lbs which I guess is not too bad considering it was over the christmas holidays!

Veronica is still alittle sick, just running a bit of a fever and the diarreah seems to have gone away. Thank goodness. Man I hate it when they get sick!

Lynda: Happy BD for ELLA! Times goes by fast doesent it? The ages of the girls are Alexis is 5, Cynthia is 33 months and Veronica is 16months soon to be 17 months on the 10th. There will be 21 months between Veronica and the new baby so it worked out great!

Patty: HAHAHA Teenage years I am not looking forward too but I think the DH will have more of a problem with it. We were watching a show the other night and a girl was dating and he said that he cant imagine the girls "ever" dating!! I laughed at that one! Sorry about Jarin crying so much! It is so devasting when you want to protect your child from other childrens hurtfull words! Did you say that your sister babysits him? That seems like WAY to many babies. It should only be 2 babies under one, more than that is way to much.

Martha: My girls LOVE advocados! And clamato juice! A great way to eat them is to put them on toast with cheese and pepper. i know it sounds weird but it is SOOOOO good. I think that is why I gained so much weight last month was b/c advocadoes were on sale and we ate 4 a week!

Rita: Happy BD to AMY! Are you getting the itch to have another??????

Christi: It is tough to get your kids off of the soother or blanket! hang in there you are doing great! Soon it will be a distant memory.

LisaB: I think dh was a bit disappointed but he was so happy to see it so healthy that I dont think he minds so much. He finds it hard as he is an electrican and the guys at work REALLY bug him already have 3 girls (typically male testoterone thing!) so when they find out we are having a fourth.... watch out. He really does not mind. He is soooo spoiled by them. Especially by Veronica he turns to butter when she is around.

Sara: HAHA 4 girls amazing isnt it! It is kind of neat to have all the same sex. I feel like we are in a special club! True about hte clothes though! Maybe I can borrow from them too....

Thank you all for the congrats!

Someone posted about spacing.... well I have done it all Alexis and cynthia are 2years 9 months apart, Cynthia and Veronica 16 months and Veronica and new baby 21 months.

Got to go... later :)
Leanne and Cynthia 33months, Veronica 16months
Wednesday, January 05, 2000 at 13:51:20 (EST))
Good morning ladies. SARAH here. This will have to be kind of a quick post cause I'm swamped at work. But, I HAD to get my TT fix!!!!LOL

LISA - MAX's "bath" was too cute!!! :)

CHRISTI - Thanks for the 16 month wishes!! Did you go sledding?

BETH aka WHITNEY - Thanks for the 16 month wishes!! Sounds like you had a great NYE!!! :)

KELLI - I'm glad you had a nice trip!! I've been thinking of you guys! Congrats on TTC#2. I wish we were ready!

PATTY - Oh PATTY, that post broke my heart. I can imagine it broke YOU'RE heart!! I agree, he should be somewhere else. I know it's probably easier said than done! Please give him a HUGE kiss and lots of lovin' from HANNAH and I!!!! :)

DEBBIE - Thanks for the 16 month wishes!!!

LYNDA - You're welcome for the card!!! Thanks for the 16 month wishes! I love that quote. I did the same thing with it!! :)

MARTHA - HI!! How's MARY BETH???

HELEN - Oh, I just can't wait until HANNAH starts drawing on the walls!! LOL (just kidding, of course)

SARAH g. - Congrats to your friend!!! :)

SUE - HI!!

Well, gotta go!! Lots of love to you all!



Sarah and Hannah (16 months)
email: smoore@geatoir.cfer.com
Wednesday, January 05, 2000 at 13:59:36 (EST))
Hi, Hayley here in California.

Well, Becca and DH are getting over their colds/flu, but are still cranky and out of sorts. Becca is in this strange clingy stage this week where she wants to be carried everywhere, even from the kitchen to her high chair. However, at her infant care center, they tell me she's fine and walks everywhere. I thinks she's just "testing" mom and dad's patience.

This will be my last posting for a few days - have to have some minor surgery tomorrow. Let this be a lesson to you all, especially nursing moms. I am having a lump removed from my breast. I had a lump removed about 10 years ago, thankfully benign. Becca nursed until 9 mos, and during that time, I didn't do my monthly checks 'cause they just felt so weird and lumpy from nursing. Then, a couple weeks after she stopped, I found a lump which has grown pretty substantially. I have a terrible history of breast cancer in my family (mother, both grandmothers), so I should have known better to get it checked out ASAP. But I was frankly in denial, thinking I was too young (36), a new mother, too busy, etc. The preliminary tests indicate that it's probably benign, but I'm still pretty freaked out. SO everyone, go home tonight and feel your boobies!

Adding insult to injury, the only day they could do the biopsy is tomorrow - my birthday. What a present!

a few personals

Patty: you should definitely move Jared. CA law is 1 caregiver for 4 infants, and 1 for 6 toddlers. Your friend is simply overwhelmed, and he needs more 1-1 attention.

Lynda: a triathlon - unbelievable! Are you pushing your baby in a jog stroller for the run portion? I barely get to the gym once a week, and they have childcare!


hayley and rebecca (15 mos)
email: hayley.thompson@citicorp.com
Wednesday, January 05, 2000 at 15:26:09 (EST))
Hey there, just a couple of quick questions.

Moriah, what are Zandy cards? I think I missed something.

Second. Cody is covered in a couple of different rashes. Well, maybe one of them isn't so much of a rash. It is ALMOST like cradle cap only it isn't yellow and scabby, but his entire scalp and moving down onto his forhead is covered in white scaley looking stuff. I doesn't flake off like dandruff though. It is kinda weird, like his head it completely dried out but I only wash his hair a couple of times a week and am still using the same Johnson and Johnson no tears stuff I used when he was a newborn. The other rash is covering his face. His entire cheeks and his chin, bright bright red. It looks like he did a face skid on a gravel road. I thought it was just that maybe he was getting teeth, but it has just spread like crazy and no more teeth.

Any ideas?
LuCynda and Cody
email: lucyndah@telusplanet.net
Wednesday, January 05, 2000 at 16:35:56 (EST))
Hello, this is Birdie. Noah will not eat vegetables. Not a one. I have tried every kind imaginable and some I had never heard of. I am so worried he isn't getting all the vitamins he needs. The only fruit he eats are bananas. He'll eat as much banana as I will give him but that's it. Any ideas???? I am also curious about when you all start potty training, move to the big boy bed, the booster seat, and the regular cup???

Helen- We had our home assessed a few weeks ago. It was so stressful. I was cleaning like crazy. I forgot about the closets and hid all the mess in them. It was pretty funny when he said, "I'd like to take a couple of pictures of the closet interior" Ughh!!!

Patty- I think it was you who mentioned about your little guy crying and the other kids calling him a crybaby. I cried when I read that so I guess I'm a crybaby too. I know just how you felt. I would hate to be the kid who says anything mean to Noah...I'll just leave it at that. Don't want to incriminate myself.

Hope all of you are well. Take care.
Birdie and Noah (13 months)
email: LJU777@AOL.COM
Wednesday, January 05, 2000 at 17:25:29 (EST))
Julianne here. I have had a busy day at work but needed to check in w/ the TT Board. Colton slep in his own crib last night and only fussed a little bit around 1am. Yeah. Hopefully this is a trend back to sleeping through the whole night in his own crib.

My life at work is way too busy these past few weeks and guess what I have to do tomorrow? Jury Duty!! Like I have time for that. It is in a city in the complete opposite direction from my work. DH has to take Colton to daycare for me. He needs to bring his ID w/ him since they have never met him! Hopefully I won't get picked to be on the jury.

I have a job interview tomorrow afternoon also. So much stress!!!!!

Leanne: Congrats on having another girl. What a great b-day and good gift from DH.

Moriah: I am sending Alex some weight gaining vibes ~~~~~~~~~~~ Luckily Colton gained the 4 pounds he lost back already. We couldn't believe how skinny he looked when he was sick. Now he has nice plump cheeks again.

Rebecca: Like your resolutions. I definately need to make more time to just play w/ Colton and do fun things w/ DH.

LisaB: Too funny about Max and the dry bath. Sorry your DH was making such a production about being sick.

Christi: I can just see Lexi puching Caleb all around the house in the shopping cart. How great that they were playing so good together.

Beth: What a fun NTE party you had. It was difficult for me to let go and have fun since Colton was at the party. It is nice to be free of the responsibility for an evening. Colton has been in his booster for a few months now. He even tries to pull the kitchen chairs back and get up on them when he is hungry.

Rita: Poor Amy, so sick on her b-day. Hope she feels better soon.

Kelli: Glad you are back. Sorry your family caught the Christmas cold too. Santa must have sneezed on all the Christmas presents! Yeah and Good Luck on TTC#2. We have not used protection for over a year and DH just commented to me that he was suprised I wasn't pg yet. Neither of us are really ready and since it took us 3 yrs to conceive Colton we figured it would take us some time for #2! The last few months I find myself wishing I was, but knowing I need to get another job in a month or so makes me glad that I am not. Hopefully soon after I have a good job though!

Patty: Here's a big hug from me to you and Jarin. That is so awful that he cried so long and was so upset. I agree w/ the others I think you need to find another sitter for Jarin. It seems like he has never really liked it there and if she is the only person watching all those kids he probably doesn't get much individual attention. I feel so bad for you to be going through this. My heart goes out to you and Jarin. Great pic of him on the frong pg. I too thought it was him and meant to ask.

Debbie: Happy 14 month Emilee. Stay Healthy.

Helen: So, Amanda is going to be an artist huh! Have fun keeping up w/ her and her wall writing.

Hayley: My prayers are w/ you on your surgery tomorrow.

Got to go, so much work to do.........
Julianne & Colton 17 mo
email: jjones@batts.com
Wednesday, January 05, 2000 at 17:33:35 (EST))
Rebecca here...

I have to make this quick since I'm expecting a call.

Patty - You should probably take Jarin out of that home. The sitter probably means well, but she has way too many kids to watch. Here, you can only watch 1 infant, 2 2years olds, 3 3years olds ecetra. Ten kids is just too many for one person.

Birdie - Paige will only eat vegetables that are given to her in original form. Her 'trees' (broccoli) have to look like ours, and her carrots have to be big (we buy the pre peeled ones and just cook them). If we aren't eating vegetables, she won't. It works really well if they come off our plate (which means no salt for mommy's food! LOL).

Well, that's all for now. Talk to you soon.
Rebecca & Paige ( almost 14months)
email: burn@canadawired.com
Wednesday, January 05, 2000 at 18:52:33 (EST))
Hi everyone, it's Michelle with Evan and Riley. I know, I know, it's been a while but I decided to check in and see how everyone was doing and realized how much I've missed this. It was so neat to read back on everyone that I was pregnant with and see how the little ones are!! I can't believe it's been over 2 years since some of us started here. Pretty neat!
I hope everyone had a great Christmas, we did even though everyone was sick with that dumb cold the whole world seems to have right now.
I think I'm going to try once again to keep up with you guys for a while so I'll see you around. Just wanted to say hi!
Moriah - haven't heard from you in a while but I'm happy to hear that Alex is over his pnemonia (sp?)! Good luck with the weight gain!
Michelle, Evan 2 and Riley 16 mo
email: mwells@telusplanet.net
Wednesday, January 05, 2000 at 19:48:22 (EST))
Please beware, and I apologize - huge, monster post ahead...

Hi mommies. Thank you for all your kind words and advice over my dilemma with Jarin. I called the sitter last night and told her that I wouldn't be bringing him anymore. She said she was afraid she was going to ruin our friendship. I think many of you were right that she simply didn't want to watch Jarin anymore. =( How could anyone not love my angel? Anyway, today I took him to my sister for her to watch. We drove up and he just started babbling - normally he would be crying. We went inside and he got right down. When I got ready to leave, she held out her arms to him and he went right to her, waved good-bye to me and was fine. Not a tear.She said he was a perfect angel all day. After her baby fell asleep, she and Jarin cuddled on her couch and he fell asleep. She laid him in bd with her and then, of course, her baby woke up. LOL. So she got up and later the phone rang. She said she turned around and there was Jarin standing there looking at her. Never cried or anything when he woke up, just went to find her. I was so relieved I can't even tell you guys. My sister is going to watch him every Wednesday (if needed since Tom's schedule is different every week) and SIL will watch him the other 1-2 times a week. My dad and MIL will be the back-up sitters.

This afternoon I had to take Jesse to the dentist and Jarin joined the kids who are now having tantrums. LOL. He laid on the floor, kicked his feet, whined, etc. He has done that about five times today! I can't believe my little monster boy. heehee. I almost have to laugh at him since he looks so pathetic doing it. (And no, he didn't do that for the sitter, so that was not the problem.)

Thanks to Lynda, Martha, Helen, LisaB, Christi, Sarahg, Sue, Beth, Leanne, Sarah, Hayley, Birdie, and Julianne for the thoughts, hugs, prayers, etc. You guys mean so much to me. I knew I had come to the right place to vent. =)

Several of you asked about my sitter (no it wasn't my sister, just a friend). Yes, there is only one caregiver. Yes, there are (or will be in two weeks) five babies under the age of one and another four under the age of two. She is not a licensed sitter, so I don't know if there are any laws against it. I do know that the dept that oversees daycare has been to check her out, and everything must've been ok. I agree that there are just too many kids and Jarin must not have been feeling like he was getting enough attention. I do think she really tried, but I think it must've been impossible with so many others. When Jesse was EXACTLY Jarin's age, he started at a new sitter after being home with me all summer, so almost the same situation. However, he was with the sitter, her five year old son and a five year old girl, both went to Kindergarten around 11AM. I would come to pick Jesse up and he and the sitter would be sprawled on a big blanket with literally every toy in her house around them. He would do a little crying when I left, but then he was fine. He never wanted to leave! LOL. I'll never find another sitter like that, but I'd like to find a better situation for Jarin. And hey, if you think 16 is a lot, one day this summer she fed lunch to 28 kids! (Of course, several were school aged.)

Enough of that...
**Debbie: Glad to hear that Maddie is feeling better. Also happy to know I'm not the only one still bfing. Jarin is 16 months and still doing it, so you're not the only one. =)
**Lynda: I'm with everyone else - in awe that you are going to do a triathlon. My idea of exercise these days is going up and down our stairs and chasing Jarin.
**Martha: Thanks for the hugs. =)
**Helen: Glad to hear that Amanda is feeling better. Our hospital here is packed too with all the influenza. Part of the way the sitter keeps her sanity is "quiet time". From 12:15-2:45, the kids either nap, or have to lay down and watch a video. LOL at Amanda's "uh oh"s on the wall. That is too sweet.
**LisaB: Yay for Max and his new/old tricks in the tub. No, men have no idea how much we love to see those little things. Thanks for the advice. I am going to try this new arrangement until summer and then I'll have to figure out what to do next fall. =(
**Christi: I was not offended at all by your post. I really wanted to hear what another dcp felt. I "take care" of 17 five years old at Kindergarten, but I know that's a lot different than in your own home. Also, five year olds can understand when you tell them that they need to wait a minute for your attention. Thanks for the prayers. That was so sweet about Caleb being so cute. I feel the same way about Jarin. I think that's why it hurts so much that not everyone loves him as much as I do. =) I also wondered why she didn't call me. I've told her before that if he gets too much to call me. I will MAKE a way to leave school to come get him.
**Beth: Ditto what I just said to Christi. No, it's not easy to leave my job, but my principal would've understood in that kind of situation. I have an aide I could've left in charge for a few minutes and I probably would've just brought Jarin to school with me for the remainder of the morning. There's enough for him to do that he probably would have been ok. You're probably right about Allison regressing a little - she's having too much fun to worry about going potty. =)
**Sue: Too cute about Cam playing "So Big". I loved it when Jarin first started that. Thanks for your thoughts too.
**Sarahg: Thanks.
**Leanne: Glad your Dr. visit went well and that Veronica is feeling a little better. No, the babysitter is not my sister, just a friend. My sister is going to watch Jarin on Wednesdays now until the end of the school year in June. He adores her. =)
**Sarah: Thanks for your thoughts and kisses. =)
**Hayley: Good luck with your surgery. I'm sure that has to be very scary. I will say a prayer fo ryou and hope everything is ok. I hope you are able to have a little fun on your birthday despite the surgery. I think you are definitely right about Jarin needing more 1-1 attention.
**LuCynda: I don't know what Cody's rash could be, but I hope it gets better soon.
**Birdie: LOL at you feeling sorry for the kid who makes fun of Noah. Actually Jaime and Jesse both said they were going to go beat up those kids. heehee.
**Julianne: Jury Duty - ugh. I had to do that last month. fortunately I didn't get chosen. Thanks for the hug and the compliments on Jarin's picture. I think he is quite handsome. =)

Patty and Jarin - 16 months
email: tematheny@ctlnet.com
Wednesday, January 05, 2000 at 19:50:48 (EST))
Hey, I made it back again, although it took longer than I thought. Caleb is driving me up the wall. He is crying at almost everything. Now is finaly eating dinner, but he yelled until I gave him a fork, go figure--he won't use it but he has to have it.

SARAH G.*** How great for you to help your friend! Glad to hear Ethan and mom are doing well.

BIRDIE & SUE*** Please add me to your bigger house list!! I would love to have room

BETH*** What a good attitiude with Allison and her potty training!

SARAH*** Yes, we did go sledding, and what a good time Caleb had! He laughed and laughed when he went down the hill, and cried when he had to come inside. That was the first time I had him all bundled up in his snowsuit and all, how cute! Hopefully the pictures we took will turn out good.

PATTY*** How did Jarin do with your sister? Better I hope. Let us know what you decide.

HAYLEY*** You will be in my prayers!

See you all tomorrow



Christi & Caleb 14 months
email: plumbs@coiinc.com
Wednesday, January 05, 2000 at 19:52:58 (EST))
Just quick note to Michelle and Rebecca. You must've been posting at the same time I was.
**Rebecca: Thanks for the thoughts and the advice.
**Michelle: welcome back!
Patty
Wednesday, January 05, 2000 at 19:58:43 (EST))
Hello from Rita.

I stayed home again today with Maddy. The fever just won't go away. Amy is coughing and has a drippy nose, but no fever. Neither of us can take any more time off, so I hope she is better tomorrow. DH just told me that he has to take a business trip for 9 days to Germany next month. Boy, am I looking forward to that, NOT. It will be tough since I am signed up to take a computer programming class two evenings a week.

LuCynda - Could Cody have excema? I get it a lot, especially in the winter. I would have it checked out. Sometimes foods can cause it, especially dairy products.

Leanne - Even if I did have the baby bug, it wouldn't be possible since DH had the big "V" last year. He agreed with me that it was sad that we wouldn't have any more babies to hold. I don't think that we could afford daycare for three and I am getting up there in age - 37 next month.

Hayley - My thoughts will be with you tomorrow. My SIL is going through her second biopsy in a year. I am determined to keep a close eye on my health since I have more people dependent on me these days.

Lynda - A triathalon? Good for you! I hope that I can lose enough weight to get back into fencing by this fall. I guess I need to hit the road too - running is the only way that I shape up very fast.

Patty - Wow, that was way too many kids at the sitter's. I am glad that your family can watch Jarin. He'll be much happier. Our DCP has Maddy, Amy and two two year old boys, one of whom just started this week. I think that is plenty. My sister is a DCP here in CA and a single care-giver can only have two under the age of two since they require so much more attention and care.

Moriah - Glad to hear that Alex is getting over pneumonia. We'll send some weight gain vibes your way since I don't seem to have a problem with gaining it. LOL

Lisa B - Now you have to tell us all about your test this week! AF just left our house, but she didn't say where she was going next.

Hay Kelli and Michelle!

Debbie - Glad to hear that Maddie is on the mend. Our girls have got to stop sharing these bugs!

Well, gotta go. Take care everyone and get healthy!

Rita & Amy
email: ritad@home.com STAYEd home
Wednesday, January 05, 2000 at 22:16:43 (EST))
hi to all! I love my new job. To all those who asked I put the bible in the middle of the shelf. They even still want me to work after that.LOL I don't have much time. Tomorrow I turn 33, I can't believe it. I'm spending special time with theboys and then this weekend will celebrate it with my fam.

Sue***I can work P/T because I get $ from Jim. When he stops paying I will have to go fulltime. I moved from a 2000 sq. ft. house into the one I have now, which is 1400sq. ft. But it meant freedom to me and we are very happy. But putting things every where is hard.

Leanne***So that's why I never had any girls. Your hogging them all!!!!!!!LOL

Paula***Your children always do things easier for other people.

LisaB***Moriah has been the victim of Tay's mouth many a time.LOL I could tell you some stories that would have you laughing for days!!!!

Romaine***Being a single Mom, Riley is my last baby. I would love to have more.

Patty***I'm glad to hear you are working it out for Jarin. I wanted to cry when I read the first post. Here, in CA, you have to be licsensed and can only have 2 under the age of one.

Well, I need to get off and spend time with my boys. Sorry I didn't post to everyone.
Shelly & Riley 21 months
Wednesday, January 05, 2000 at 23:50:10 (EST))
Hello from LauraB -
Happy New Year to all you wonderful mommies and toddlers! I wanted to tell all of you to watch your toddlers around elevators. This past week when my MIL and SIL were visiting for the holidays Shane and I took them to check in to their hotel. Shane had a ball walking up and down the hallways so instead of carrying him out of the elevator like I would usually do I let him walk out on his own. Well at the last minute Shane did a 360 and headed back onto the elevator. Luckily my MIL grabbed him and pulled him back just as the doors closed. You can imagine my heart pounding just thinking about what might have happened if he had gotten on that elevator all by himself. The three of us would have been running up and down stairs trying to catch a runaway toddler on the elevator. Afterwards we had a good laugh and Shane will now be carried off and on the elevator. Shane's newest fun thing to do is play with his fisher price phone. He picks up the receiver and "talks". I have no idea what he is saying but I think it's kinda cute. My New Years Resolution is to lose some weight and eat better.
So far so good. Also I have been trying to tighten our budget so that by the end of the year we can pay some bills and who knows maybe start working on baby #2. I have a serious case of the baby bug but would like to wait until Shane is two. I can't wait too long because I got started a little late and will be 34 in March. Well on to some personals.
MORIAH - Let me know if the "touch kitty nice" works for you. My son is still terrorizing my dog and she is way to old to avoid him. Glad your son is getting better and here are some gaining weight pounds for him.LBLBLBLBLBLB
LUCYNDA - See above for my elevator story. Those little ones sure make life interesting.
LISAB - See above to Moriah about the "touch kitty nice". That was so cute about Max and his Dry bath. I didn't realize that you and I are so close in age. I'll be 34 in March and can't believe it. I never minded my age until I got pregnant with Shane and I felt like an old lady.
PATTY - I'm sending you and Jarin hugs for the babysitting fiasco. It is so hard for you working mothers. I am so glad that you were able to get your family to watch him. I know you must have felt so much better being able to leave him and know he is happy.
HALEY - Goodluck on your biopsy. Please let us know how it turns out. I will say a prayer for you.
Goodnight for now mommies.
LauraB@Shane 14 months
email: xxbryant@aol.com
Wednesday, January 05, 2000 at 23:56:13 (EST))
OOOPS! I guess if Shane had done a 360 he wouldn't have ended up almost on the elevator. I meant 180. I never was good at math!
LauraB@Shane 14months
Thursday, January 06, 2000 at 00:02:02 (EST))
Helllllooooooo! It's Moriah. So hows everyone??? We're doing okay. My poor baby had a rough day! 1st today was his RSV vaccination :( Okay - I have to admit normally when everyone complains about how heart wrenching shots are - I'm usually pretty cold hearted - trust me they're nothing like watching your kid be intubated. Anyway to day when Alex got his shot it broke my heart. It's just getting so hard now that he's older. He was sitting on my lap playing with the nurse & when she put in the needle h looked so pitifully hurt. Like as if to say "Why'd you hurt me I was being so cute!". Oh my heart hurt!

Then to top it off the ECE people came & tortured him for an hour. He wouldn't show him any of his tricks! No sitting, no clapping, no waving, no schooching & definately nothing that resembled a smile!

Alex is AMAZING! He's doing all kinds of new things. Today (when the nurse was still his friend) she the word "Dangerous" and Alx piped up with "rangerous". He reminded me of Astro from the Jetsons. Both the nurse & I where cracking up!

Things are so good right now. The were times when I honestly never thought we'd get to the point. It finally seems as though maybe we're getting a break. Alex proves every day that he is a miracle. I've decided that I want to teach him to say his 1st sentence to the Genetics Dr. It's gonna have some expletives in it for sure!

Geoff is still gone but hopefully he'll be home for good with the boat by the weekend or early next week! I can't wait! 6 weeks is such a long time to have no hubby (other than for a few days here & there for conjical visits LOL).

Speaking of my (lack of) recent conjical visits Thank you to Hayley for giving me permission to feel my boobies tonight! LOL LOL LOL LOL


Okay seriously! My prayers & thoughts are with Hayley during her biopsi! I hope that you get good news for your birthday!

Happy Birthday Shelly! I wish I could be there!

Lisa B - Oh don't even get me started on the whiny man thing! Of course when Alex was sick right after TG I was sick too! I spent 4 nights on the living room floor because Alex need to be close to the oxygen tank - totally uncomfortable. Not to mention totally stressed! Geoff has 2 sniffles & it's then end of the world! OMG! Drives me nuts!

Beth I'm so JEALOUS! We went to a WILD NYE party & Alex spent the evening at the IL's. But there was no way they could keep him over night. SO no alcohol for me. I was watching everyone around me & I so badly wanted a little drink. Oh well - maybe next year!

Rita - I'm sorry you guys are still under the weather! It seems as though flu is really hitting. I'm starting to stress more about keeping Alex out of places. I let myself get lax in running errands (at non busy times of day) but I need to be back into germ-o-phobe mode again. Feel better soon!

Hello Long Lost Kelli!

Patty - I was so happy to read your post tonight! Poor Jarin! I couldn't believe that he cried for that long & the sitter didn't do something - ANYTHING! to make him feel better. Sounds like you have a better arrangement going now. I agree with everyone else that she has WAY too many kids. 28 kids for lunch? I had a friend who was a DCP for a while & she had 4 infants all basically the same age (1 was her own) and 1 2 year old. It was just too much. I'd call her sometimes & they'd all be screaming. Of course her's got the 1st attention. It broke my heart. I agree that there should not be more than 2 babies for 1 person.

LuCynda - Zandy Cards is my company. My SIL & I do custom birth announcements, invitations & cards. Mostly using a photo of your baby (or whatever). We'll have a website up soon! www.zandycards.com - but right now its just under construction.

Alright time to post this monster & get to bed! It's like 12:30 am & I've got Alex's PT coming @ 8:00 am. Ahhhhhh the joys of sleep deprivation for mommies! :)
Moriah & Alex (almost 15 whole months :()
email: geoffandmoriah@msn.com
Thursday, January 06, 2000 at 04:20:48 (EST))
Good morning from SARAH!! :) Man, this week is going S..L..O..W!!!!

Not too much on this end so...

LUCYNDA - How are CODY's rashes today?

BIRDIE - Your closet story cracked me up!!

JULIANNE - Good luck with your job interview today. How was jury duty?

MICHELLE - Good to hear from you. I've been thinking of you alot.

PATTY - I am soooooo happy for you and JARIN!!! :) :) :) I'll bet it feels like a HUMONGOUS weight has been lifted off of your shoulders!!!!! I hope it works out! I'm proud of you!! :)

CHRISTI - The sledding sounds like it was so much fun! I'm sure you got some great pictures!!

RITA - Gosh, I hope you guys get to feeling better! Germany???

SHELLY - HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!! :)

LAURA - Scary story about the elevator. I'll keep it in mind!

MORIAH - I HATE shots!!! HANNAH's got to get some this week. :( :( DH has been gone for 6 weeks??! I'll bet you miss him a ton!!

Well ladies, got to get back to work. :( Talk to you all later!

Sarah and Hannah (16 months)
email: smoore@geatoir.cfer.com
Thursday, January 06, 2000 at 11:47:55 (EST))
Katy here!!

Hello all. I've been missing for a while because all three of us were felled by the flu. DH was real sick on the weekend, Liam and I the last couple of days. I was supposed to start classes this week. Missed all day Monday and thought I was better yesterday, made it to one class and then got ill again. I hate being sick.

I hope everyone else is protecting themselves this season from the flu.

Hope everyone is well.
Katy and Liam
email: princess__bride@hotmail.com
Thursday, January 06, 2000 at 13:16:54 (EST))
Hi from LisaB, escaping from the ever-growing piles on my desk for a mental health break. I swear, I just got 2 more assignments today ... both due by the end of the month. Will it EVER slow down?! I'm coming in Sat. to work, probably all day, just to get something, anything, moved off my desk. We got Max a Safety 1st potty chair last night. He sits on it (fully clothes), stands up, puts the lid down, opens the lid, sits, gets up, etc. It thinks it's the coolest thing ever!!! I'm giving him 1+ months to get used to it before I even try sitting him on it to go potty.

HELEN: Amanda's owning up to her mistakes? She won't do that in a few years - LOL! After all the organizing you've done recently I'm surprised you have ANYTHING left to clean!!

SUE: Cam sounds like a smart little guy with all his new tricks. Yep, you can keep AF!

LEANNE: I figured DH's buddies would razz him about sharing a house with 5 females!

HAYLEY: I hope the biopsy is benign ... THAT would be a good birthday present.

LuCYNDIA: Please take Cody to the doc to get his rash checked out.

MICHELLE: Hi, stranger!

PATTY: Yeah on changing sitters. The complete turnaround in behavior proves that Jarin was just wanting someplace quieter and less hectic where he would get more attention. I can't believe Max actually hit a 1st before Jarin (hilarous full-blown temper tantrums)!

RITA: It'll suck with DH being gone 9 days. The longest mine has been gone was 6 days/5 nights and that was horrible (and I only have 1 child).

MORIAH: Rangerous?! What a BIG word!!!!

BTW, Remember Barbara - Stephen's mom? She e-mailed me yesterday. Stephen and her are both doing great. Today is her first day as a SAHM. Stephen hates to eat anything (I guess they could thru all sorts of antics to sneak a bite in - LOL) and is walking all over. I guess he has a cold right now, like so many of our kids have. The best thing is that she's had very few problems with OCD since she had Stephen. She said "hi" to Moriah and Birdie. I guess she reads the board some but doesn't have the time to post.

LisaB & Max (16 months)
email: lisa_lab@hotmail.com
Thursday, January 06, 2000 at 13:18:56 (EST))
No Jury-Duty-Julianne here!! There was a message on my answering machine when I got home telling me the jury session was cancelled. I will not have to report agian until the middle of February. I was so very very happy.

Colton does not like like going to bed lately. I have to sit with him for almost an hour to get him to sleep and then less than an hour later he is up again. DH thinks he naps too much during the day. At the most he takes 2 1-hr naps. I think his teeth are hurting and it wakes him up. What do you think?

LuCynda: I would call your dr's office and run Cody's symptoms by them to see what they think.

Birdie: Colton too was a very picky eater. What he loved one week he hated the next few weeks. Whenever he was sick or teething he wanted nothing to do w/ food. He still doesn't eat meat. Just keep offering and slowly Noah will come around. I did start Colton on liquid vitamins and that really seems to have helped. It helped to ease my fears about his lack of nutrition too.

Michelle: Nice to hear from you again.

Patty: I was so relieved to read your post and see that your sister and relatives are all going to help watch Jarin. You must feel so much better. It still makes me cry thinking about it. I am glad that Jarin had such a good day w/ your sister.

LauraB: Wow, what a scare you had. I rarely let Colton walk in public. I carry him just because I know how quick he can be.

Moriah: Hope your DH comes home to you this weekend. Astro-Alex is sounding good. How cute. This age sure is lots of fun.

I have my interview in about an hour. I hope it goes good.
Julianne & Colton 17 mo
email: jjones@batts.com
Thursday, January 06, 2000 at 13:58:02 (EST))
Hi mommies. DH was off work today, so Jarin got to stay home with daddy. That meant I got to stay after school for a while and try to get caught up. After leaving so quickly every day this week, I really needed some time to grade papers, make plans, etc, etc. Jarin has been Mr. Clingy today and yesterday after we got home. He follows me around and SCREAMS his head off if I don't pick him up right away. Today I came upstairs and he stood at the base of the stairs and screamed until DD brought him up. What's up with that? He's known how to climb stairs for months! Could this still be separation anxiety? When does that end?

**Rita: Sorry to hear that Maddy's fever is still hanging on! That poor little girl. =( DH will be gone for 9 days? Yuck. My DH has been gone for 3 at the most and that was too long. Sounds like your sitter situation is ideal. I'm so jealous. =)
**Shelly: Happy Birthday tomorrow!!! =) =) =)
**LauraB: I could just see Jarin doing the same thing near an elevator. I was just 34 last month, so we are very close in age. I'm glad that my family is going to watch Jarin, but I will still have to find a sitter for next year.=( It is a good situation for now, but I don't want to rely on them for too long. I used to watch my other sister's kid (of course it was every day and I felt really taken advantage of) and it kinda caused animosity between us. I don't want to put my SIL or other sister through that.
**Moriah: Yay for Alex and his "rangerous". LOL. Sorry to hear he had to get some shots. They suck, no matter how "easy" they are compared to other things. It always hurts to watch your child in pain. LOL at you teaching Alex his first sentence for the geneticist. (Is that a word?) I'm sure it will be a really "good" one. I agree -two babies under one is enough for any sitter.
**Sarah: I agree this week is going soooo slow, and with my emotions all over the place, it seems even longer. It definitely feels like a humongous weight has been lifted, but I know that this is only a temporary fix. =( Jarin loved Hannah's hugs. =)
**Katy: Hope you, Liam, and DH feel better real soon.
**LisaB: that's great that Max thinks the potty chair is so cool. Hey, you can keep those tantrums! Two days of this is enough for me!!!! Thanks for the update on Barbara.
**Julianne: Yay for getting out of jury duty. I don't think that two one hour naps should be too much at this age, but what do I know? My kid still doesn't sleep through the night either. good luck on your interview.
**Whiney one is back at my leg, so away I go.
Patty and Jarin - 16 months
email: tematheny@ctlnet.com
Thursday, January 06, 2000 at 17:14:44 (EST))
Hi, Romaine and Saba here!

OOOPS! I got the boards mixed up. I posted about spacing of children here by mistake! It was BT that someone asked-oh well!

Yesterday there was a toot. I looked at Saba and she turned to DD2 and said "My" (her name for her). I said that i didn't think so and w/ a grin she said "My" again! Passing the blame already!

She looks for DD2 in the morning. Often DD2 is already in my bed from her am nurse. Saba looks in her crib and says "My?". When i tell her she is in my room off she goes to say "hi".

Saba is (mostly) soooo good w/ DD2. She likes to entertain her and is the only one that she kisses on her own accord (other than toys!). She says "Hi dee-dee" which is her version of "Hi sweetie"!

Lately she has been calling her "Dolly" for some reason!

We just spent the last 1/2 hour w/ me chasing her and catching her to kiss her! I am exhausted!! I think that she could have kept on endlessly!

Food has not been a big priority w/ her lately. She is being very particular. Today she had cereal for lunch b/c she did not want the peanutbutter and banana sandwich (cut out gingerbread shape no less!!). I ate it-mmmmmm....

Patty-I hope that she is not the ONLY caregiver!! If so, she has far too many little ones (esp. babies) to be able to give the care that is needed!!! 5 BABIES?? I did 2 under a year w/ Saba and my work partners son and that was difficult some days. I say go w/ your sister (?) the few days a week that you mentioned and see about other arrangements. My heart goes out to you!!! My greatest fear is of my children being picked on or being bullied. How awful for Jarin to have been called names by the others. He may not understand the words, but surely the tone can be felt by him! Ahuge hug to the 2 of you!!!!

Rita- Happy belated birthday to Amy!

Debbie- Glad that Maddie is feeling better!

Sarah-Happy belated 16 mos. to Hannah!

Lynda-Happy belated birthday to Ella!

Helen-Amanda is very creative:):)

Lisa B-Good luck TTC! Those 30s sure do creep up fast!

Sue-Kiki!! how cute!

Hayley-Prayers to you that the surgery goes well and the lump is benign. I cannot imagine the stress and worry that you are under right now!

LuCynda-No idea! Poor Cody! How soon can you take him to the doctor?

Birdie-The only veggie that Saba eats consistently is peas. I try others, but she rejects them! Keep up w/ the fruit (using a variety if you can) and keep testing out the veggies. Toddlers can be big on food fads-see my note about Saba! Booster-we bought one around her 1st b-day and use it a lot to play w/ play-dough on the floor or for snacks. Up until the last several mos., she mostly used her high-chair. She uses the booster when she has dinner w/ us, but the high-chair often for breakfast and lunch b/c I wheel it into the kitchen. Our eating area is all carpet. WE do use a drop sheet, but sometimes it is easier if I just feed her in the kitchen, esp. if I am not eating w/ her. BED- We bought her a bed when she was almost 16 mos. and had it in her room on the floor so that she could get used to it. I would put her for naps when she was interested. She was the first while, then for 2 mos showed no interest. I was worried b/c DD2 was due, but decided that we could work around DD2. Then she resumed naps in the bed. Soon all naps were in it. She showed interest for nights. Some nights she would end up being switched in the night. Soon that ceased. It took about 6 weeks. No interest was shown in the crib again until we changed it for DD2, then she wanted to be in it again! CUP-We only used bottles for formula, so other drinks were associated w/ the cup. When we ceased formula, she was all on the cup. I don't know if this helped or confused!!! Feel free to e-mail me if you want to ask more questions!

See you....
Romaine and Saba 21 mos
email: rrantry@yahoo.ca
Thursday, January 06, 2000 at 17:53:39 (EST))
WOW - I just read forever trying to catch up but now I'm so scared I won't get to post before Riley wakes up that I didn't get to finish!
Guess what just happened here - Evan was watching Blues Clues and he knocked a glass off the table on to the hardwood and it broke. He was SSOOO upset it was actually cute. He was sobbing and crying and saying "me so sad me broke your glass". It took forever to make him calm down and believe that it was just an accident and I wasn't mad. Most of the time lately he's been a little monster so I need times like this! LOL. Speaking of monsters he got a caesar hair cut at the hair dresser yesterday and when she was done cutting she spiked up the front (he's 2 1/2) and he said - MOM, ME LOOK LIKE A MONSTER! He was so happy to look like a monster and everyone in the whole place cracked up.

Lisa B. Rita, Patty, Julianne, Sarah, I just want to say thanks for the welcome back!
Patty - I'm so happy you have your relatives to watch Jarin. That must be the hardest part of having to work, actually when my sister wanted to quit babysitting I decided to stay home because I couldn't bear to leave these guys with anyone else. I felt so bad for you when I read your story about Jarin.
Laura B - he he on the elevator - it brings back memories but we were only in a two story building! Thank GOodness he was caught before he escaped.
Julianne - Coltons hissing sounds cute.
LuCynda - we were at the dr. yesterday and she had rash charts on the wall, I was looking at them but don't remember what each one meant! Sorry - I would take him in to get checked probably.
Birdie - Hi, have you tried putting something to dip his veggies in on his plate, Plum sauce and cooked carrots are a favorite here. EWWW!
Leanne - congrats on 4 girls, that's so exciting! I'm one of 4 girls and LOVE it!
Beth - Hi, WOW, you must have a wonder child potty training so young! I'm still fighting with Evan about that and he's 2 1/2. GOOD LUCK.
Lisa B, I love Max's bath stories. They are so cute. No- husbands have no clue! I called Terry up the other night to see Riley all covered in Bath Crayon drawings that Evan put on him he just so Hmmph, gave a tiny smile and walked out. I hoped he would bring that camera or video camera! LOL. AT LEAST I called him to see I guess. That hairspray bottle is a great Idea, I think I'll try it.
MORIAH - Can't wait to see your website - I LOVE the name you chose for your company. GOOD LUCK!
Does anyone have low weight babies - other than you Moriah? Riley is 16 months and only 17 lbs 10 oz. The Dr. is worried about him and has been for a while but all the tests come back fine. He lost weight when he was sick and now she's worried again. I am feeding him as much butter and oil as possible (on food of course) but am wondering if she is worried for no reason. He's really healthy and smart. Still though if you have input or fattening him up suggestions I'l love to hear them.
He's awake now so I'd better go grab him. LATER!
Michelle Evan 2 and Riley 16 mo
email: mwells@telusplanet.net
Thursday, January 06, 2000 at 19:50:31 (EST))
Hello from Helen&Amanda!!

Well Amanda is pretty whiny!! Yes PATTY- I have had enough, have you!!??? I hate it when they are sick! She is over the fever but really crabby- nothing makes her happy and then you look at her the wrong way and she is bawling again.

We have to put a deadbolt on one of the doors- Amanda will be found wandering the streets soon! I put a door-knob cover on it- had a leftover from the first two kids- its working for now. I also put a bell on her shoe to tell where she is- she won't answer or come when called( either will the dog!), and I couldn't find her yesterday for a couple minutes and checked outside- she was upstairs quiet as a mouse.Made me worry for a minute!

Yesterday she did the cutest thing---- she was touching the candle-not lit-- and I told her NO! and she kept touching it so I tapped her hand and said NO!!!! walked away and was in the kitchen and heard her saying-NO! and slapping her own hand- touching the candle -saying NO!! and slapping it again- YES I have it on video-- so funny!!!

OK-- on to personals---
##LISAB-- So cute- Max in the tub!! Hope DH is bettetr soon!!
##PATTY---Hope Jarin is done his whining soon! :O) So glad he likes your sister's house better- some kids do better in quiet atmosphere's and are not 'crowd' people- hope it all works out.
##MORIAH-- I think I meant the verse on the bottom of the card -- something about miracles under Alex's picture??( if I remember right?). So appropriate!!Glad he is feeling better! Best of luck w/zandy cards!!
##LEANNE-- Congrats on the 4th girl!!!
###SHELLY-- Happy 33rd!!!!!!
##BETH-- Glad Allison isliking the potty!! My little 'helpers'leave out pens,pencils,lip gloss, etc for Amanda so she can show off her creativity!!LOL!
##ELLA-- Happy 1st Birthday!!!
##EMILEE- Happy 14 mos!!!
##HANNAH- Happy 16mos!!!
##LUCYNDA-- Hope you can get Cody's rash checked soon-let us know.:O)
##SARAH G-- Sorry your friend had a c-section but glad the baby is doing well!!!
##BIRDIE--Oh Birdie- you can't hid things in the closet-- under the bed is the place, and in the washer and dryer- the only places they don't look! LOL! They got her and only went in the fam room and left-- all that for nothing!They did take our open ceiling into consideration though so thats good! OK-- The potty-- nobody explains it better than Dr Spock-- get the book if you don't have it- he explains the diff stages of interest in potty training and what each means and how to get them familiar w/it, not scared, the do's and don'ts etc-- highly recommend it!!( there's a big difference in 'mommy' being trained to know when its time to go potty and the toddler being able to know,control it, and be 'big' enough to go on their own.)
THE CUP-- They go from bottle-to sippy cup to regular cup--- when they've mastered each one move onto the next.
BOOSTER--When they show interest in sitting at the 'big' table and will listen and sit and not need the extra security and safety a high chair provides.
Bed-- I've read that they NEED to be in a crib for their own safety for as long as they don't climb out or outgrow it- 2.5--3yrs. When they go into a bed, they need to know its for sleeping and to stay in it, not wander around at night, and stay in it and sleep when mommy and daddy put them in it- that can be the hard part.( you'll probably need a rail for the bed for at first and a gate for the doorway.)This is all just 'my' opinion though.:O)GOOD LUCK!! Did you ever get the pics of all of us this fall???
##HALEY- Hope your better soon!!! Prayers your way.:O(
##LAURAB--So glad Shane was ok after the elevator, what a scare that was!! My SIL says a woman near her lost her 1st born, a toddler in an elevator accident yrs ago in Boston, don't know the details though, she became a very religious catholic and went on to have 10 babies- all hers- the last w/downs.( they go to the same church.)

Well, I think thats all for now- wow this is long--- night- night!!!
Helen&Amanda@17mos(#3)
Thursday, January 06, 2000 at 21:59:25 (EST))
Hi Lynda here.

Ella has said her first word (that she means) and its AT! (for Hat). Probably because she will never leave the damn thing on her head when we go outside and I am forever telling her to leave it alone.

A quick story - I took Ella outside with me today whilst I hung out the washing and put her in the sand-pit beside the line. When I looked down at her she was about to shove a hand full of sand in her mouth. I lunged down and grabbed her hand just in time whilst saying No. Quick as a wink she filled her other hand with sand and brought it to her mouth - again I caught her other hand. Whilst I was holding both hands she bent her head down to her hands trying to eat the sand from them. All the while she was laughing and giggling like it was a great joke and she knew she shouldn't be doing it! - Maybe I should feed her more - poor starving little thing!!!LOL! (Ella is very chubby - we have her 12 month check up on Monday and we'll find out just how much over the 50th percentile she is)

A few quick personals:

LisaB - good luck with the preg test tomorrow.

Hayley - all the best with the biopsy. You have scared me into checking tonight - thank you! In answer to you question I don't have a running stroller - i thought about getting one but they are expensive and I am not sure I would like running without moving both arms. Also I quite like the freedom of doing something by myself - although if I could take Ella along it would be easier to fit in more runs. Currently I do 3 a week.

Patty - relieved to hear that you have removed Jarin from the sitter and that he is much happier with the new arrangements. I really find it hard to believe that one person could care properly for 10 kids when 4 of them were babies!! Let alone feed 28 at one meal!

Well we have Ella's party this weekend so I'm up for a frenzy of cooking, cleaning, hostessing and then more cleaning for the next 2 days. Its just my and Dh's extended families - but I want things to look nice for them and I have been a bit slack on the cleaning lately.

Bye for now



Lynda & Ella (12 months)
email: ljpjyoung@ozemail.com.au
Friday, January 07, 2000 at 08:01:31 (EST))
Good morning ladies!! HAPPY FRIDAY!!! :) :) :) Finally!!!! SARAH here (as if you all didn't know!) :)

I forgot to tell you all I gave HANNAH a bath a couple of nights ago with bubbles for the first time. Well, last night when I did, she started out at one side of the tub (opposite of drain). And as I drained the water out, she kept "following" the bubbles and finally ended up trying to get them out of the drain. It was very cute! The only thing is she tries to eat the bubbles. :(

KATY - HI! Good to hear from you. Any word on DH's settlement??

LISA - Your story about MAX sitting on the potty was cute! Thank you for BARBARA's email address!

JULIANNE - Yea...no jury duty!! :) I don't think 2-1hour naps is too much sleep during the day.

PATTY - Once in a while HANNAH does the same thing standing at the base of the stairs crying for me to get her. I don't get that!!!

ROMAINE - Thank you for the 16 month wishes!

MICHELLE - Very cute story about EVAN and the glass, and the haircut!! :)

HELEN - Great idea about the bell on AMANDA's shoe. I'm gonna have to try that one!!! Thank you for the 16 month wishes!

LYNDA - That was a funny story about ELLA and the sand. It reminded me of HANNAH with her bubbles.

Well ladies, I hope you all have a terrific, L..O..N..G weekend!! :) My friend is sitting for us on Saturday night, so DH and I can go on a "date". I'm sooo excited!! :)

Be safe!

Sarah and Hannah (16 month)
email: smoore@geatoir.cfer.com
Friday, January 07, 2000 at 10:57:01 (EST))
Good morning from Sue and Cam. TGIF! I had a 4-day workweek a couple weeks ago and a 2-day workweek last week, so this "full" 5-day week seems likes it's been going on for months! I actually like my job and the people I work with, but am more than ready for a break! Hoping it's decent out tomorrow so I can get Mr. Cam outside for a while. My DCP is very good about getting the kids out for fresh air, but I'm also an outdoorswoman and go stir crazy being stuck in the house on rainy days.

I put Cameron's new Gerber sneakers on him this morning and he looked like such a big boy! Up until now, I usually just kept his feet in slippers or something of the sort, but decided it was time to start getting him used to "real" shoes. He kept looking at his feet (which looked enormous in those bright white sneaks) and touching his toes like he was trying to figure out where the heck his feet went.

Well, DH and I have a big "date" tomorrow night for dinner and a couple of drinks - at the casino of all places! We've really been feeling disconnected lately with all the holiday activities and being so busy with Cam. It's embarrassing, but I truly can't remember the last time we DTD! I just don't have any drive for it, but do miss the closeness. I'm hoping a little romance will help things out. Cam's a year old now, and I still don't have any sex drive at all. I mean NONE! DH has been so very good about it, but I know he thinks that he's the problem and he's not. He'll be asking Santa for a blow-up doll next Christmas if I don't get my act together. LOL!

I think that the Theory of Evolution must be true and humans are decended from apes. The only sound Cameron made last night was "Ooh, Ooh, Ooh" over and over again. If I didn't know it was him, I'd have thought a National Geographic show about chimps was on the TV. Come to think of it, he does seem rather fond of bananas too! Guess I won't worry too much until I catch him picking fleas off the dog or cat!

HAYLEY - hope all went well with your biopsy. Breast lumps certainly aren't things to mess with. We don't have a history of breast cancer in our family, but my younger sister (31) found a lump and has had to go through all kinds of tests - ultrasounds, MRIs, (as she puts it), being felt up by countless doctors and medical students, and a biopsy. It was found to be "pre-cancerous" and had to be removed. Good thing she acted promptly!

LUCYNDA - hope you find out what's causing Cody's rash! Is it driving him crazy being itchy or anything? Let us know how he makes out.

Hope everyone has happy and HEALTHY weekends. We are all tired of being sick and snuffly too!

Sue and Chimp-Boy Cameron
email: sbarry@key.org
Friday, January 07, 2000 at 11:15:06 (EST))
Boy, miss one day and it takes 20 minutes to read all of the posts! Christi here.

I had a headache like nobody's business yesterday! I woke up with it, the kind that make you want to be sick, and just close your eyes. Finally at 4pm DH got home and I took a tylenol with codine, and it still took about 90 minutes to feel the efects of it. But, I didn't want to take it with kids here and no other adult.

Caleb got is last set of shots until school yesterday--4 of them. I am glad they are over, he was very good, only cried for a few minutes. He also got his blanket back. I thought he would need it for the shots(it sat on the table), and after seeing how much happier he was, no more whining etc. I decided he could keep it for a few more months. What do you think???

PATTY*** I am glad you found a for now good situation. Good luck with a long term one.

RITA***Hope Maddy is better soon! 9 days would feel like forever!

LAURA*** I never would have thought of an elevator, thanks!

MORIAH*** Ok, I never felt bad either--all though not as much as you went thru with Alex--I saw IV's in DD's newborn head, tubes ans wires everywhere etc, shots are not so bad! (but still not to be looked forward to)

KATY*** Hope everyone is well inyour house soon!

JULIANNE*** Yeah for no jury duty! How did your interview go?

ROMAINE*** "Hi dee-dee" is so cute!! I called DD "dolly" for a long time, not sure why, but DH hated it!

MICHELLE*** Cute about Evan's "monster" hair cut, do you like the spike? Thinking of doing Caleb's like it in the summer.

SARAH*** Have fun on your date!

Oh, I got ALL of my parents to sign my contract (have I already told you that?) I am very happy to have it done! thanks for your help

Best be going, see you all soon

Christi & Caleb 14 months
email: plumbs@coiinc.com
Friday, January 07, 2000 at 11:42:56 (EST))
Hi from CathyG and Alison!

Happy New Years to everyone - it's been a long time. Today is my third day back at work, and so far, I am thrilled to be back. I am surprised, I had really enjoyed staying home, but I am happy to be back doing something different. So far, I'm not too busy, but I'm just starting a project which should be quite interesting. I'm working Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, at least for now - my boss expects me to be full-time much sooner than I do.

Both girls are doing well with the caregiver. Alison is definately a little bit clingy when we get home, but she doesn't appear sad to leave me in the mornings, which make me feel better. I am finding it rough to get up so early (6 am) as both of my kids sleep well, I haven't been getting up before 7 until this week. I am tired at night, but I will get used to this routine again.

I hope you and the babies are all well, and that you had happy Christmases and New Years. I hope to stay somewhat caught up with you all.
CathyG and Alison (17 months)
Friday, January 07, 2000 at 11:53:42 (EST))
Good morning all!! Allison has started doing the cutest thing these past two days!! She will run up behind me or DH and wrap her arms around our legs, giving us a big hug and then kiss the back of our legs. She has just been SOOO affectionate lately. I love it. She's been a real snuggle bunny. Too cute!!

Sue - loved your description of Chimp boy. I was LOL thinking of him picking fleas off the pets.

Sarah - Hannah sounds too cute with her bubbles!! I'll have to try them with Allison sometime soon.

Lynda - good luck at you party this weekend. Take lots of pictures.

Helen - I was LOL at you telling Birdie to hide things in the washer, dryer, etc. Good idea. I hadn't thought of that although I do hide dishes (clean ones that I don't have room for) in the stove.

Michelle - too cute about Evan thinking he looked like a monster!!

Romaine - Saba was funny blaming Mia for the toot! I guess it starts early!

Patty - Allison will scream like that to be picked up as soon I we get home from work. I find that if I take 15-20 minutes to sit with her and play or read a book, etc then she will play by herself long enough so that I can get supper done. I guess she just needs a little mommy time after being away from me the whole day.

Julianne - I don't think 2 hour naps are too much. Sounds like it could be his teeth. Allison never sleeps well when she is teething. I have also read that at this age toddlers are into too much and learning so much that they will fight sleep because they are afraid they might miss something. Good luck

LisaB- thanks for the update on Barbara. So any sign of AF today??

Katy - hope everyone in your area gets well soon!!

Moriah - WOW!! rangerous is a huge word for such a little guy! 6 wks with no DH?? You are a wonder mom!

Laura B - thanks for the heads up on elevators. I hadn't ever thought about it, but it could potentially be a scary situation.

Shelly - happy belated bday!! Hope it's a good one.

Rita - Germany and he's not taking you with him?? Good luck on your own. I hate it when DH's gone for extended periods of time and I only have one child to deal with.

Birdie - keep offering the veggies. As someone else said toddlers go on eating jags where they won't eat certain foods one day and may gobble them up the next. For a while the ONLY veggie I could get Allison to eat was brocolli. Before that is was only peas. Now she'll eat several, but I expect that to change in a couple of weeks as well.

Hayley - I've been praying for your biopsy! My mom had breast cancer about 21 years ago so I'm usually pretty diligent about keeping a close eye on things.

Leanne - congrats on 4 girls!! Poor DH, he's been overrun!LOL

Well, I should get back to work now. Talk to you ladies on Monday as I know I probably won't check in from home this weekend.
Beth and Allison (19 months)
email: bobwite@msn.com
Friday, January 07, 2000 at 11:54:36 (EST))
hi from LisaB. Max got his first timeout yesterday. He pulled his 23-month old buddy's hair at daycare. He got one warning and turned right around & did it again, the little stinker. He sat quietly and without protest on the "timeout" rug but his eyes were almost overflowing with tears. The sitter said it broke her heart. :-( He also said his first sentence. The sitter's 4-year old DD was hugging on him and he got tired of it so he said "Let Go!". I guess it shocked them all; the girl let go and left the room - LOL! Then he clearly said "car" and "cookie" at home (and "cracker" no so clearly). Also, he was pointing at a cow and I asked him what cows say and he said "moo".

JULIANNE: It takes 1/2 hour plus anymore to get Max to sleep at night. Now that he's older he doesn't want to quit playing, even when he's rubbing his eyes. I've tried an earlier bedtime (in case he's getting too tired) but it still takes 1/2 hour.

LauraB: Max holds my hand if I let him walk in public but you made me realize how quickly he coudl slip loose.

ROMAINE: Saba sounds like a little doll!

MICHELLE: Riley sounds like he wears his emotions on his sleeve!

HELEN: The bells on the shoes is a good idea, but Max rarely wears shoes inside. The candle was hilarious!

LYNDA: Congrats on Ella's 1st word. The sand was too funny!

SUE and SARAH: Enjoy your dates!

SARAH: The bubble story was funny!

CHRISTI: I think a blankie is ok until at least age 3.

BETH: Allison's hugs and kisses melt your heart, don't they?! I've had signs AF is coming and other that she isn't, so who knows!!! If she doesn't show up by Sunday afternoon I'll take a test. I don't trust my cycles yet as I've only been off the pill 2 months.

I forgot to tell you about Sunday. Max wanted to play on the bed as I talked on the phone. He stood up so I, without thinking, said "get down". Well, he took off running for the side of the bed and went overboard. He wasn't hurt, just scared. Awhile later he wanted back up there. Then he crawled off the side of bed, smiling at me the whole time, waiting for me to catch him. He wanted back up on the bed again and got ticked when I wouldn't let him!


LisaB & Max (16 months)
email: lisa_lab@hotmail.com
Friday, January 07, 2000 at 12:42:20 (EST))
Just one quick thing,

SUE - I hear ya on the sex drive!!!!!!!
Sarah again!
Friday, January 07, 2000 at 12:46:27 (EST))
Happy Friday from Julianne. I get to have a fun scrapbooking tonight. I am so far behind but very tired so I doubt I'll last until midnight!

I took Colton to a candle-lite party last night. He did really well. He likes to point and blow at candles so he had a good time. I kept him out of reach though. He wanted to go and visit w/ all the other ladies and didn't even want to sit anywhere near me. He had fun showing off his toys to them.

Colton's daycare got a tent w/ balls for the kids to play in this week. Colton loves it, but had a bit of a problem sharing. Evidently one of the kids wanted to come in and Colton threw the ball at her and hit her. Of course her mom was standing right there and she kind of scolded him and said "Colton, that's not nice." He came right out of the tent, looking sad, and handed a ball to her daughter. (She is a former co-worker and she told me the story when she dropped by work.)

My interview went really good, but it was not a good job fit. I am in HR and they are looking for someone w/ accounting experience to handle the financial responsibilities of their payroll and benefits plans. I am not prepared to switch career paths. Sorry LisaB, but I don't think I could handle working with numbers all day, I prefer people, even when they scream and throw tantrums. We joke that HR is just like daycare!

LisaB: I have to get Colton a potty chair to play w/ too. Max sure is talking up a storm now. Oops, his first time-out. At least he seemed sad about it.

Patty: Hope Jarin isn't Mr. Clingy for too long.

Romaine: Saba sure is having fun w/ "My".

Shelly: So Riley liked his Monster hair. What a great reaction from seeing himself in the mirror.

Helen: Good job on getting Amanda to reprimand herself when going near the candle. Good idea about the bell. I found Colton sitting in the bedroom in the dark trying to pull the Christmas lights out of the box. It was too quiet so I had to see what he was up to.

Lynda: Congrats on Ella's first word. Sand must look yummy, Colton always tries to eat it too. Have a fun b-day party this weekend.

Sarah: Hannah sounds so cute trying to rescue the bubbles. The other day Colton went to chew on his rubber fish and got a mouthfull of bubbles w/ it. There he sat w/ his hands covered in bubbles trying to wipe the bubbles off the fish. Have a great date w/ DH this weekend.

Sue: How funny about Cam trying to find his toes in his shoes. You have a great date too.

Christi: It makes you glad when you know your child is done w/ shots! Colton has one more set to go next week. I agree w/ letting Caleb have his blankie. Sometimes mom's sanity is more important than trying to make our little ones grow up so fast. He's got time to wean from it yet.

CathyG: Hope the job continues to go well for you.

Beth: Enjoy you little snuggle bunny. One of my nick-names for Colton is snuggle bug.

Have a great weekend everyone, sorry I was so long winded today.


Julianne & Colton 17 mo
email: jjones@batts.com
Friday, January 07, 2000 at 14:03:08 (EST))
Hello from Rita

Well I had a bad relapse yesterday. I felt so tired, achey and stuffy yesterday. I did make dinner but asked Larry to finish it up and serve it. I just laid on the couch after I fed Amy. I went to bed before Maddy - I certainly must have needed it! Now I have to stay well and energetic to get the house ready for the big birthday bash on Sunday. I can't wait til it's done because I won't have to worry about another party until Larry's 40th in September. What happened to me? I used to love entertaining.

Lynda - Have fun with Ella's party. I hear you on getting the house together. Since we have all been sick, our house is a royal mess. I have been barely able to keep up with laundry and dishes. Amy is maybe around the 50th percentile for weight. When I look at her and look at her sister's pictures at the same age, Maddy looked so chubby. She was two pounds heavier and two inches longer than Amy is right now. Amy is so petite, especially when I look at her tiny feet.

Helen - Amanda is quite a character! The candle story was so cute. I normally store things under the bed, so I will be in trouble if/when we ever have to show our house. I guess that I would have to rent a storage shed or something. I can't seem to live without clutter of some kind.

Julianne - Have fun scrapping. I haven't touched anything since I did some last minute pages for my mom and MIL. I have decided to start a separate Christmas book and keep cards and pictures in it that we got from friends. I also need to start an alphabet album for Maddy. She told Larry that she wanted to learn to read yesterday. I need to go to another midnight madness to get some stuff done. Santa did bring me a bag to carry all of my stuff in, though.

Shelly - Happy Birthday to you. I wouldn't mind being 33 again...

Sue - Cam sounds so cute! I call Amy our monkey girl because she is climbing everywhere. Last night she had almost climbed onto the girls's table before DH caught her. Maddy never did anything like it, so we weren't prepared.

Lisa B - You are under strict orders to let us know ASAP about your test/AF!

Hayley - Let us know how you are doing when you can.

Beth - No, we are not going with Larry. I hope that we can when the girls get a little older. He has to be at the big CBIT tradeshow in Germany and will have no time for touristy things. I knew that he would be travelling a bit since his company was purchased by a German firm, but I wasn't prepared for it to happen right away or for so long. I just hope that we don't develop dual travelling schedules. My sister and her husband did that for years. They were hardly ever home together.

Well, I had better get back to work. Take care everyone!





Rita & Amy
email: ritad@home.com
Friday, January 07, 2000 at 14:51:47 (EST))
This will be the last time today! :)

JULIANNE - I just tried sending you an email (to avoid taking up more space on here again!), but am having trouble so... I just wanted to tell you HANNAH has one of those tents with the balls(if we're talking about the same one). She got it for Christmas. She loves it!! I would recommend it to anyone. It's huge, though.

OK, I'm signing off...
Sarah (OK....so I'm bored!!)
Friday, January 07, 2000 at 14:55:05 (EST))
Happy Friday Everyone!

I have some really cute pictures I'd love to show off of my boys, let me know if you would like me to email them.
CHRISTIE - I would highly recommend getting Calebs hair done with the spike at the front - Evan looks so cute, although i could be a little biased I guess. He has always had "pig shaves" so this is a nice change.
SARAH - just make sure you don't buy "smelly" bubble bath. We have strawberry and I no longer put it in the tub when Riley is in there, he's a bubble eater too.
LISA B - Max sounds like he is doing great with the talking!
JULIANNE - If I remember right you live in Calgary? Where are you going scrapbooking tonight? I sometimes go to scrapbookers but I too am very far behind.
HELEN - The bell is a great idea! We tied a chime thing to the top of the screen door so we can hear if the kids try to get out. The bell on the shoe is a better idea because then you always know where they are! How did Moms' get to be so smart anyways?
Well, think of me tonight everyone. I will not be having fun. My wonderful husband has this REALLY couple that he insists we socialize with every once in a while and tonight is the night. Last time they were here they got drunk and stayed until 3:00, i was ready for them to go home at 10:00! We - well, they, discussed how close his brother lived to my husbands brother for 45 minutes before they insisted on getting the map book from their car. I was yawning the whole time. What fun!

Michelle, Evan 2 and Riley 16 mo
email: mwells@telusplanet.net
Friday, January 07, 2000 at 18:30:02 (EST))
Quick prayer request!!!!

Does everyone remember Baby Rachel? If not she's a baby that was born with the same nose problem as Alex & a really SEVERE heart defect. Anyway we have a lot of the same Dr's & I've become friends with her mom. Rachel has been in the hospital 99% of her short 6 month life.

Well things have taken a drastic turn for the worse in the last couple days & the Dr's are at a loss about what they can do for her further at this point. As a last ditch effort they are transfering her to UCSF this afternoon & are doing emergency open heart surgery in the morning.

Please pray for her recovery. She is very weak & I'm so scared for her poor parents. They are of course distraught. They have fought so hard for Rachel & now her life is hanging by a thread.

We should all be so thankful for our little ones.
Moriah
Friday, January 07, 2000 at 18:55:40 (EST))
i've been posting on and off here for quite a while and i'm embarrassed to admit that i am to scared to post my name in fear that i will be frowned upon but i need to talk to someone about this. lately i've been feeling sad, unhappy, whatever, for no particular reason and am scared that it might be mild depression. it's not all the time and i usually snap out of it but it is seeming to come more frequently these days. maybe because we've been sick for a while or it is too hard to get out of the house. i don't know. sometimes i have to wonder if there is more to life than cleaning, cleaning, cleaning and everything else that comes with being a mother. i have lots of friends that want me to do things - 3 lunch requests this week, and i just have no desire to go although i did make myself go on 1 of them. i'm always the one everyone comes to for thier support. LOL, because i am always so happy, but slowly that is changing. my happiness i mean. even my parents and siblings have noticed. i seem to get grumpy with the little one/s more quickly and always feel like i need time alone. my marriage is great and my dh very supportive. he even tries to give me time off but it just isn't enough. i'm not sure what to do now but i'm tired of feeling this way and can't afford pay for counselling. sometimes, as much as i love my child/ren and my dh i wonder if this is what was meant for me. in my heart i know it is because i can honestly say i love it but then why do i feel this way? sorry if i bum anyone and please tell me if i should take this elsewhere but i'm hoping for some support.
sad sometimes
Saturday, January 08, 2000 at 00:03:52 (EST))
Just a quick note from LisaB to say no AF yet!!!! I'll keep you updated.

MORIAH: I'm so sorry to hear about Raquel. Of course I'll pray for her.

SAD SOMETIMES: Noone is (or should) look down on you for your post. I know I also sometimes feel the same way ... except with me it's "there's should be more than life than work and never having any free time) - and I post this as I'm sitting in the office on Saturday working. UGH! Luckily for me these feelings are VERY fleeting and rare. If they are common you need help. We all have a breaking point and you don't want to reach that when your child is around and you might do something you'll later regret. "Regular" counseling is expensive but I'm sure there's some alternatives. I just looked in our local phone book and several counselors, psychologists, etc. have crisit lines listed. Your situation might not be a crisis but they might be able to direct you to free/low-cost services. You could also try calling the local hospitals and explain your situation. GOOD LUCK (and e-mail me personally if you want to ... regardless of who you are I won't look down on you or judge you for this, or reveal your identify to anyone).


LisaB
Saturday, January 08, 2000 at 09:36:13 (EST))
Hello from Helen&Amanda!

A quick hello since I saw the post from'sad sometimes' and wanted to respond.
I knowhow you feel- at times I want to dissappear and never hear my name or anyone wanting me for anything- notall the time though- it is overwhelming at times, wanting to look perfect, have the little ones looking perfect, meals on time, house cleaned, and being HAPPY to be a SAHM. Like they say, its the hardest job with the least recognition, no paycheck and no thank-you's for everything you do, its just expected.
Yesterday on OPRAH, she talked about it w/MarieOsmond, go to her web-site-- www.oprah.com and click on Marie- there are two books and a web site for moms- not sure the name, its about others feeling the same-- hope it helps a little,your not alone--e-mail if you want to chat and don't feel embarrased at all-- hope your day goes well!!:O) :O) :O)

Gotta go and run to the bank for DH!!
LATER!!
Helen&Amanda@17mos(#3)
email: mhim27@hotmail.com
Saturday, January 08, 2000 at 11:05:11 (EST))
Hey everyone! I am new to this board. LuCynda is the one who told me about it, we post on the expecting in May board and our babies are due a few days apart. I am 24 and a mother to two wonderful children, my daughter Codi and my step-son Joey who will be four on Monday. I am really looking forward to getting to know all of you! :-)
Misty and Codi (16months)
email: Dixiegrits@hotmail.com
Saturday, January 08, 2000 at 12:33:58 (EST))
Happy New Year everyone.

Hope all is well for Mommys and Babys............

Has anyone heard from Tracey?
.and Mimie? Wonder how they are?

I have kept them in my prayers constantly.

I am working on a mail letter for Marriages, Moms,
and working out problems.

I will keep you all posted.
Sarah
Saturday, January 08, 2000 at 14:11:44 (EST))
Hi from Christi

Not much is going on here, I get to keep one of my DC kids overnight tonight, lucky me!
But, I wanted to comment to sad sometimes. Of Course you can post here, that's what we are for!! I am a SAHM too, sometimes, I really hate it, read my diary entry on preschoolers today this week, it is in there. I had a mild case of PPD, and it came back when Caleb was about 12 months, sometimes i still feel it. I am not trying to down play it at all, but instead of going to the Dr (I did have an appointment, life is too short to be unhappy) I prayed and prayed. God did deliver me. I am not saying I don't have bad days, because I think we all do. Also, I am not trying to preach religion to you, just telling you what helped me. I will be praying for you, as the others have said you can e-mail me, I will keep your identity hidden if thats what you want. I hope you know we are your friends, we want to help you. There is no perfect situation, SAHMs think working would be good, WMs think SAHM would be great. I hope some way somehow this helped.
Christi & Caleb 14 months
email: plumbs@coiinc.com
Saturday, January 08, 2000 at 17:29:00 (EST))
Hi mommies. Jarin is napping, so I am able to take time to get caught up here. He's been home with DH the past two days while I worked, what a relief. =) He is still being really whiney and clingy. I'm wondering if maybe his bottom molars are trying to come through. I love him soooo much!

Ok, I know this isn't for any of us for a long time, but does anyone know if there is a site anywhere for mothers experiencing empty nest syndrome? I have a coworker whose daughters just got married and went to college and she is having a really tough time.

**Romaine: Saba sounds like she is going to be such a good sister to Mya. How cute about the toot. Jarin isn't eating much right now either. Yes, she is the only caregiver at her house. Thanks for the huge hugs. I know - it breaks my heart to think of Jarin being bullied and called names at such a young age. =(
**Michelle: So cute with Evan, the glass, and the haircut. I wish I could be a SAHM too. =( Jarin was 19lbs 8 oz at his 15 month check up. Our drs. have also said he is too low, but he looks healthy to us. We did give him Boost Plus to drink for a while. Has lots of calories and the chocolate tastes good - Jarin liked it. Please email pics of your boys. =)
**Helen: Too funny that Amanda is now disciplining herself. =) Yes, I definitely hope this whiney stage passes soon!
**Lynda: Yay for Ella saying hat and LOL at her taking it off all the time. Jarin won't leave his hat on for anything and it is so cold here now that I worry about him getting sick. Good luck with Ella's party. Feed her lots of cake so she doesn't need to eat sand. LOL
**Sarah: Cute story about the bubbles. Jarin also loves bubble baths, but his bubbles are usually the soothing vapor bath since he is always so stuffy. Have fun on your date!
**Sue: I am with you and Sarah - still no sex drive. I'm thinking a blow up doll might be a good gift for DH. LOL LOL LOL. Too cute about Cam and his shoes. When we first put them on Jarin, he acted like his feet were glued to the floor and would just scream. Then one day he decided they were ok. So funny. Have fun on your date too.
**Christi: Hope your head is feeling better today. I hate those headaches. I get them when my sinuses get really bad. Glad you got your parents to sign the contract and yay for Caleb being done with his shots for a while! =)
**CathyG: Welcome back to you and Alison. That's great that you are enjoying your new job.
**Beth: Aren't their hugs just the greatest? I have always spent the first part of being home totally in "mommy & jarin" time, so I don't know what's going on right now. =(
**LisaB: Sorry to hear Max had his first time out. Poor little guy. Gees, what a little genius boy doing all that talking all at once. Jarin's favorite word is "uh". That stands for everything. LOL
**Julianne: I could just picture Colton in the balls at daycare. That's so cute he tried to make amends with the little girl. =)
**Rita: Come on sick woman! I am sending some major healthy vibes your way. You guys have been sick way too long. Jarin is quite a little climber just like Amy.
**Moriah: I am getting ready to go to church in about 1/2 hour. I'll make sure to say some special prayers for Rachel and her family. Please keep us posted.
**sad sometimes: Could you go talk to your regular doctor? Mine is really great about listening to me. I know I've posted several times about taking antidepressants. I don't think anyone looks down on me - at least I hope not. I was feeling the same as you, more and more until I knew something wasn't right. The medicine has really helped me to feel like my old self again. I know counseling is expensive, but could you call Catholic Charities or some other organization that doesn't cost so much, if anything? Please keep posting.
**Misty: Welcome to you and Codi.
**Sarah: Tracey posted earlier this week, but hasn't since then. I talked with Mimii on IM the other night. She is still struggling. Jimmy (her dh) is still playing head games with her and she has to let the kids go with him three days a week so it is very hard for her.
**Gotta go everyone. Take care.
Patty and Jarin - 16months
email: tematheny@ctlnet.com
Saturday, January 08, 2000 at 17:41:54 (EST))