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Toddlers Today's MomsTalk Archive Hello--it's Melissa here. Another fellow glow-girl!! I just sent the pics of Molly to y'all, however, DARLEEN, SHELLY and LYNDA, your e-mail addresses came back as "undeliverable"...??? Don't know what's up with that..?? I've not posted since last Tues., as I have had the stomach virus. NO---it's NOT pregnitis; I haven't been "exposed". Hell, I don't even remember what being "exposed" is like!! LOL!! (crying, too!!) This will be a monster post. I need to catch up. Molly hasn't been up to any more unusual antics, except that we can't do anything without her asking, "whatcha doin'?". I asked her to pick out a book to read before bed tonight, and after quite some searching, she said, "Mama, this would be good."!! As I was reading to her (in a whisper, because my dad was watching TV), she said, "Mama, speak up!"!??? Where did she get THAT? I don't know!!! It's sometimes VERY scary!! Now on to personals: LYNDA***CRUD=CRAPPY (feeling -- stopped-up sinuses, itchy, watery eyes, etc.) We just call it "feeling like crud" (or sh*t--to be exact!!). Yes, our summers are very hot and humid (although we have very little rain), so it's very dry, too. JULIANNE***So cute about Colton wanting you to draw elephants! Thank God Molly only asks us to draw "smiley faces"!! How is his lip? Hope it's better. LISAB***Glad you finally got your roses. Max--that little stinker!! He seems to know how to turn on the right emotions at the right time, huh? LOL! RITA***Happy BD. Hope you had a good date w/DH. I'm glad your tooth is better--UGH!--root canals! Good luck on the new job proposal(s). HELEN***OUCH for Amanda's arm. Glad the 2nd time popped it back into place. Have a good trip to DW. Where do you live? (Pics of Molly are on their way.) LOUISE***It's good that you went to the DR. I'm on antidepressants, too, and I wouldn't want to be without them! Hey, sometimes "nerdy" men turn out to be the best ones!! LOL!! CATHYG***LOL at Alison's "culinary" preferences!! Molly won't even wear a hat!! To me, Ottawa (Canada in genaral) is MUCH MORE exotic than North Central Texas!!! BETH***Allison the manipulator/schemer!! It sounds exactly like Molly. (I swear those 2 are soul sisters!!) Too cute about the Cheerois and M& M's!! You have to get up VERY early to stay ahead, and I hate to inform you, but it only gets harder (but better) from now on! LOL! Did you get the e-mail re: the training panites? I haven't tried them yet; Molly just doesn't seem that interested. (And, I've been sick........so.......) I want a picture of Allison, PLEASE??!! SARAH***I hope Hannah's ear(s) infections get better soon. I've been there; done that; walked the floors---literally. NO fun! Molly always tells me when she needs a "keenex", too! MICHELLE***I've been on the Depo shot since April 1998. I LOVE IT!! No periods.....only some spotting and 1 "real" period since that time. How's Riley doing these days? DARLEEN***Hope Nolan is eating better, but be assured, he WILL eat when he gets hungry. I know it's not the best thing, but I do let Molly "graze" on goldfish, cheerios, crackers, etc., so I won't feel bad about her going to bed on an empty stomach, also. I've found that the less "deal" I make of it, the better it seems to be..?? SUE***I'm keeping my fingers crossed, too, that Cam's AM naps will quit all together. I, too, would rather go to the gyno (and/or give birth!!) than go to the dentist. (And I don't have a hairy dentist story in my past, either....!!!!!LOL!!) Hush on the 37-year "pity party".....I'll be 40 in March, single, living w/parents (again), WAH..WAH..WAH..!! MORIAH***YEA for the "NO" from Alex!!! (I thought I'd NEVER say that about "NO", but----WAY TO GO ALEX!!!) What wonderful progress!! PATTY***I loved the picture of Jarin in your pumps! He's too cute!!! (Makes me wish for a boy, too!!). (Re-read my opening!!!) KELLI***Elizabeth sounds too cute with her "Ohhhh Yummmmmmmm's!!!" Maybe she'll be a chef!! The words and phrases will only become more and more and better from now on---something new everyday. Hey, Molly HAS to have a "mazagine" (note the spelling--the way Molly says it) when she sits on the potty, too. I'm glad you are feeling somewhat better and that the U/S went fine. DEBBIE***I hope Emilee's rash gets better. I was going to suggest hydrocortisone, but it seems as you have had better suggestions. I hope you get to feeling better soon, too. SARAH #2***(I guess that's going to be your "name" here, huh?). WELCOME!! That's a very strange conicidence about you and the other Sarah and Hannah!!! Well, I'm going to go to bed now. Would you guys let me know if y'all got the pictures? I HOPE I was doing what I was told in sending them.....?????? Again, I'm computer illerate. Talk to y'all later.... Melissa and Molly (2 years) email: molsmom98hotmail.com Sunday, February 20, 2000 at 01:37:04 (EST)) Hi All, long lost Kahne here! I have missed you guys soooo much! Cat is growing like a bad weed and will be 14 months next week. I am losing my mind with school. I cant believe how much it takes out of you. I envy all of you with cool weather, it has been 80 degrees out here all week! Welcome to all of the newcomers!!!!!! I hope to have some new pics scanned soon, so you can see the changes she is going through. She says a few words now like " Oh Wow", "hot", "up", and "bye bye". well I have no time to myself, lol, so I have to run! Miss all of you and hope to be back soon. Kahne and Cat 1 email: kahneandsteve@megagate.com Sunday, February 20, 2000 at 02:55:08 (EST)) Hi, Romaine here. I sent out a new pic of (I think) Saba that we took yesterday trying out the still pics on our cam-corder. If I missed you, let me know if you want to see. I just had to share a delightful mommy moment. I just finished some delicious cuddle-time rocking Saba. She is not much of a cuddler, but the last few nights she has been willing to rock w/ me after I put DD2 to bed. WE rock and I whisper stories, hopes and dreams for her to her while I have my face buried in her hair and she is so warm and relaxed. Tonight the love just was too much and the tears would come. How did I get to be so blessed... Romaine and Saba 23 mos email: rrantry@yahoo.ca Monday, February 21, 2000 at 00:22:31 (EST)) Warning!!!!!! Monster bitchfest ahead. Some of you may want to skip on through. Espescially those with nice normal Mothers!!!!!!!!!!! Today, I went to town with my oldest sis, Tammy. Jim was here with the 3 boys. My 7 yr old has been eating like a horse lately and I guess he got hungry. Jim first told him to eat some leftover mac and cheese to hold him over, as Jim wanted us all to have pizza when I got home form shopping. Well, Jess didn't want that. He kept asking Jim when would I be home and Jim told him to call my sisters house to see if I was over there. Instead Jess called my Mom. BIG MISTAKE!!! Jess told her that Jim would not give him anything to eat. So my Mom, instead of asking to speak to Jim, goes into overdrive and starts calling all over to find me. When I came home, after only being gone 1 hr., she is on the phone telling me to go some where away from Jim so she can talk to me. I told her I'de call her back when Jim left to go pick up the pizza. In the mean time, I found out from Jess what he had said to her. I call her back and she is wacked out! Telling me that Jim has not been around for 3 yrs and that I'de better set him straight about how things went in my house, blah, blah, blah! I tried to explain it to her, but she is telling me that Jim has stupid ideas, and that she was ready to get in her car and come take my kids from my house. I lost it!! Just yesterday, I was at her house watching her husband act like a 2 yr old in front of company, because he had a headache and was tired. So then she tries telling me things like, "you're not a bad mother". I say your damn right I'm not! What that had to do with it, I don't know. I feel like nothing I do is right. And tonight, I started letting little things about Jim get on my nerves and rethinking my decision. Why? Because my mother said bad things about him. I truly think that she is upset because I am living my own life and Jim is living it too. She won't have any control. I have not bawled in a long time, but I sure did when I finally got off the phone. I had a big talk with Jess and Tay about airing the "dirty laundry". I don't know if they understand it all but I'm sick of all the criticism. What ever happened to "live and let live".? I called Moriah after and cried to her! Thanks Mo! I know you'll listen when I need an ear. Anyway, hope you all had a better Sunday then me. Mo pointed out that I had given you all the wrong e-mail address. I typed in shellvance instead of shellyvance@bobvance.com. So try sending me the pics to that address, if it still doesn't go, send them to shellyvance@hotmail.com. Thanks for letting me vent! Riley is doing great with Jim! I'm so proud of the effort that both of them are making. Type at you all later! Shelly & Riley 22 months email: shellyvance@bobvance.com Monday, February 21, 2000 at 00:25:06 (EST)) Hi everyone, it's Debbie. Hope you all had a great weekend and everyone is healthy and safe. This was "Whiskey Flat" weekend. It's a big town party. Parade, pony rides, carnival, arts and crafts. The girls and I rode with dh in the fish planting truck in the parade. Maddie and Emilee had a great time. They both did the parade wave. It was too cute. Maddie rode the kiddie rides, ate cotton candy, popcorn and little Emilee was so tired from waving she crashed. We had a terrible scare today. We took a drive up river and on our way home a blazar (coming in our direction) was passing on double yellow lines and almost hit us head on. He locked his brakes, skidded and rolled on his side and hit the mountain. If he had hit us, we would of rolled several times before landing in the river. As he was coming towards us, I said a quick prayer. After we pulled over, I made sure the girls were ok and ran up to see if he was ok. He climbed out and lit a cigeratte. I asked him if he was ok and then I was ready to cuss him out. I was so pissed. I was so shook up after that, I sat in the truck and cried for a few minutes. Thank God no one was hurt. Thanks Julianne, Rebecca, Beth, Hayley, CathyG, Patty, Louise and Melissa for all your advise. You are the greatest. Michelle, I did stop Emilee from almost all dairy products for 2 days and it did cut down the # of bm's. She still had 2 and were loose. I think it could be teething also. They have that "sour" smell. Sarah#2 & Hannah - Good luck with Hannah. Lynda - I've been using Eucerin dry skin cream on Emilee. I think I'll look for the Hydradern, I like the ingredients better. Rita - Happy Birthday Glo-Girl! Yea for Amy talking. Good luck with the job situation. Patty - Yes you will. If Emilee can do it, so can Jarin. I love your "Jarin" stories! Louise - Emilee has been drinking alot of apple juice lately. Iwill stop that for a few days. Thanks. Helen - Hope the weather gets better for you. Have a great time. Time for bed, sweet dreams everyone. Talk with you later. Debbie, Maddie & Emilee email: debngreg@qnet.com Monday, February 21, 2000 at 02:27:04 (EST)) Julianne here. I had a great first time skiing Saturday. I had quite a bumpy start though. My first attempt at grabbing the tow rope to go up the hill had me falling over my skis and tumbling to the ground right in front of a ski instructer and his class. He advised me to clean the clumped snow off my skis so that they would slide. Oh was I embarrassed. I did good for my first time out though. We went down 3 different runs and each time I got better. I am paying for it now though. I am very very sore. Dh and Colton had a fun afternoon together. Colton just jabbered away at DH in the truck as they ran their errands. Colton has only had water bottles since Wednesday. I am hoping to completely put the bottles away this weekend. He drinks about 1 bottle of water a day now. He acts like he is hungry constantly though. Hopefully he will learn to eat better at mealtimes so he doesn't get the urge to snack in between so much. Melissa: Thanks for the cute pictures of Molly. Colton's lip is getting better. However, he still has a big indentation in his lip that needs to heal. Beth: Allison is quite the Grandpa's girl. Christi: My DC charges $30/day for ft, otherwise it is $35/day for 1 child. I pay my mom $20 a day. We are in a bigger city though. Glad Caleb is feeling better. Patty: Wow, all those snow days are really cutting into your summer. You will have to hold class outside in June! Jarin sounds so cute jabbering away on the phone. Louise: Helmet-woman--what a great first impression. LOL I am sure the others mothers were more than understanding. Colton likes to take the lampshade off the lamp and put it on my head while I am trying to change or dress him. Too funny about your DH's remark about your cyber friends. Helen: Amanda sounds like Colton with all her energy. Saturday the babysitter told DH that she had never seen him so active--he never sat still the whole time she watched him. On the way to bring her home he fell asleep and she said "Oh, so his batteries do run out!" Kahne: I would love to see new pictures. I start night school 1 night per week this week. It is a 10 week course w/ a big exam at the end. It seems very strange to be going back to school. Romaine: I didn't get the Saba picture. What great mommy cuddle time. Shelly: Sorry your Sunday got so crazy w/ your mom. Try not to let the opinions of other people cloud your own judgement. Trust your instincts and hang in there. Debbie: The town carnival sounded like lots of fun, but what a scare on the drive home. So glad that nobody got hurt. Sometimes it make me so mad how others drive because they are in such a hurry. I've come to realize that it is better to arrive late than get into an accident. Have a great week everyone. Julianne & Colton 19 mo email: jjones@batts.com Monday, February 21, 2000 at 10:38:36 (EST)) Hi, Louise here, just a real quick note as I actually have loads of work to do before I finish up next week! Nothing much new, just a couple of personals: PATTY - Sorry to hear you sounding down, I LOVE your posts about Jarin and want to hear everything he's been up to! You are always so supportive and understanding to the rest of us, I hope the blue feeling passes quickly. LOL at DD - I have to admit I remember being a real brat at that age (I'm sure it's not much fun to live with though!) SHELLEY - as Julianne said, go with your own instincts. I can imagine how mad you were with your Mum, I would have been too, that must be frustrating that you've made decisions that others don't respect. i guess give her time though - I suppose she's just looking out for you! KAHNE - I'd love to see Cat. ROMAINE - Those times are SO precious ...... JULIANNE - At least you managed to stay on your feet part of the time! You should have seen me when I started, I was like a human snowball!! Talk more tomorrow, Louise & James (15 months) email: rnash78035@aol.com Monday, February 21, 2000 at 11:37:29 (EST)) Good morning ladies....SARAH here. Ugh, Monday! Oh well, I only will be working today and tomorrow, and then I have Wed - next Tues off seein' as we're going to Green Bay. I'm sure gonna miss HANNAH!!!! :( She'll be in good hands, though. We had a good weekend. HANNAH's feeling much better (thanks for all of the get well wishes!) The bachelorette party was alot of fun!!! Didn't get wasted, just a nice buzz. Then just got real tired. I got home between 1:30-2am. Not used to going to bed that late. It was fun! Then did NOTHING yesterday! I know this is a stupid question, but do any of you ever feel like you do EVERYTHING around the house??????? OMG, I do. And then I get yelled at when the bills don't get paid!! It's like, YOU DO IT!!!!!! Anyway, I love DH to death, he just pisses me off sometimes!!!! Some of you remember when my little cousin died unexpectedly last summer? Well, (this may be confusing) yesterday I was watching the Colorado Avalanche hockey game, and they were showing a promo of all of the players doing a charity benefit for Children's Hospital (a luncheon) coming up soon. Well, they also do a fashion show with some of the kid's that have been associated with Children's Hospital. Well, on the promo it showed one of the players walking down the runway with Stuart (my cousin) at last year's luncheon. WOW, that really took me by surprise!!!! I just started crying. Hope that makes sense. OK, I could keep rambling on and on, but better get to personals: RITA - So, have you heard anything else on the new position? BETH - That's great ALLISON loves your mom and dad so much!! HANNAH thinks my mom and dad are the best thing since sliced bread!! LOL In your post you said it was funny how HANNAH used my NOSE as a kleenex, I'm assuming you meant my SHIRT!! LOL LOL :) CHRISTI - Glad CALEB's feeling better! PATTY - I love hearing about JARIN!!!! DON'T stop your stories!! You don't bore me at all! Sorry you're feeling down! Please email me at any time!!! Sending ++++++ vibes your way! :) :) As far as DD goes, I hate to tell ya, but I had that attitude throughout high school!!! :( Good luck! And no, I didn't hug the porcelain god!! LOL MICHELLE - I know "LUCY" from ER (KELLIE MARTIN) just didn't like her character, and said some of the cast was hard to work with (at least that's what I read....so who knows!) LOUISE - Your helmet story made me LOL!!!! :) :) :) Hilarious!!! Thank you for the get well wishes! MELISSA - Thank you for the picture of MOLLY! What a doll! KAHNE - Hey stranger!! I'll take the 80 degree weather!!!!!!! ROMAINE - I received 1 picture, is that all there should be? SHELLY - Sorry you had such a bad day! DEBBIE - OMG, I'll bet that scared the crap out of you!! I'm sure glad you all are okay!!! JULIANNE - Glad you had fun skiing! The first time (and only) I went, I was getting off the ski lift, fell down, my ski went flying off...so don't feel so bad! LOL :) OK, 1 more thing I forgot to ask. Please pray for my friend JEN. She's preggo with triplets, and already having some contractions. She's only 20 weeks!!!!! I'll keep you all updated! Take care! Sarah and Hannah (17 months) email: smoore@geatoir.cfer.com Monday, February 21, 2000 at 12:26:14 (EST)) Hello, just a quick note from Birdie. Gotta go play in the parachute with DH and Noah. Noah had his first real haircut tonight. It made me so sad. He looks like a little boy now and not a baby. He is still totally adorable though. I saved some hair. DH went with me. He held him the whole time and I videotaped and took pictures. Pretty corny huh??? We can't help it. He was soooo good. Never even flinched. He was so curious. We have tons of snow. Julianne- Yes, I would love to know more please. Thanks. Moriah- OMG, OMG, OMG what the heck are you talking about? I think I need a little reminder. Rubber dress and boots???? Way too cute Alex. Noah does not say no but he does shake his head no when he does something he knows he is not supposed to. Shelly- Yes, those first 15 minutes with Drew were sooo scary. The scariets 15 minutes I have ever seen in a movie were "When A Stranger Calls" and the girl is babysitting and keeps getting calls and she keeps calling the police and they trace it and call her back and tell her the calls are coming from inside the house. She sees a man start coming down the stairs and he's killed the 2 kids. Very scary! Take care. Birdie and Noah (14 months) email: LJU777@AOL.COM Monday, February 21, 2000 at 20:37:11 (EST)) Hi, Romaine here. Not much happening here. I found out today that I did not get .5 of the position that I had applied for. I hope to get the other .5 so that I can get out of the school that I am in. I thought that they were looking for someone to take ALL of the position, not half! I was extremely disappointed. It was the .5 that I really wanted, not the part that is left. I worked on my resume today. I hope to start to apply out and move closer to my family. I sent a pic of Saba yesterday. If you would like one, let me know. We were testing out the digital camera part of our cam-corder. Debbie-OMG!!!!! SO glad that no one was killed!!!! What WAS the guy doing?????? Julianne-I'll get a pic out to you! Melissa- I would love to see Molly's pic. Sarah-Glad that Hannah is getting better! Yes, there was only one. I could not find the pic of DD2. I am hoping that I sent the pic of Saba that I meant to. For some reason, they are listed w/ numbers and I cannot remember which was which! Birdie-It was NOT corny!! Romaine and Saba 23 mos email: rrantry@yahoo.ca Tuesday, February 22, 2000 at 00:38:10 (EST)) Hi all, Kahne here, I wanted to post that I just got off ICQ with LuCynda. It seems that she has been having a rough time. I hope that all of you that have her e mail addy will write her and give her a little support :o). Havent got the new pics yet, but I will soon! Gotta Run! Kahne and cat 1 email: kahneandsteve@megagate.com Tuesday, February 22, 2000 at 00:39:28 (EST)) Hey, it's Melissa here. This will be a very short post, as I am tired from an all-day trip to my uncle's. (With my parents and Molly, of course!) DEBBIE***I will send you Molly's pictures as soon as I get through here. SHELLY***I will re-send the pictures to your hotmail address. ROMAINE***I sure thought I sent the pics to you, too, but I'll re-send them. BETH***I got all 3 pics of Allison. I was going to reply to your address on them (I assume it's your work), but didn't know if that would be ok or not. Hope you had time to read the message about the training pants. Hope everyone had a good weekend. I'll post more in the next few days. Melissa and Molly (2 years) email: molsmom98@hotmail.com Tuesday, February 22, 2000 at 01:58:59 (EST)) Melissa again..... ROMAINE***The pics DID come back. I have your address as rrantry@yahoo.ca Don't know what the deal is. Let me know if I have it wrong or if there is another address I can sent them to. DEBBIE, BETH AND SHELLY***I hope you all got your pictures too. I hope I didn't miss anyone. If so, please let me know. LYNDA AND DARLEEN***Yours came back to me, too. See post to Romaine. Thanks y'all, Melissa and Molly (2 years) email: molsmom98@hotmail.com Tuesday, February 22, 2000 at 03:05:36 (EST)) Rebecca here... Okay, I promised myself I'd be quick since it's already 11:30 and I need some sleep. Paige is doing better. Went to the dr today and her ears are all cleared up. She still has the sniffles and the cough, but both are much better. I trimmed her bangs today. She looks so different. I'm hoping tomorrow she'll sit still so I get them a tad straighter!LOL Louise - sounds like you're only a half dozen (or so) episodes behind us. Did you cry when Carol had the babies or what?!? Patty - you probably don't want to hear this, but I was pretty self involved right through my teens. But, I didn't have a younger sibling either, so there's hope! Shelly - sounds like your mom overreacted and was quite unreasonable. Vent away!!! Sarah - I know what you mean about doing everything. My problem is not being recognized for all that I do. It's like, hello, I've just cleaned the whole house and made dinner while caring for your daughter and all you want to do is watch tv!!! My husband trys, but most of the time he's oblivious! Okay, now I really have to dash. Talk to you soon! Rebecca & Paige 15months email: burn@canadawired.com Tuesday, February 22, 2000 at 03:48:33 (EST)) I was somewhat of a bad mommy yesterday. I let Colton play in the slush & puddles yesterday and he got soaked. The mom in me was going--OMG his feet have got to be wet and freezing. The kid in me was going--But, look at all the fun he is having. He would run through the puddles laughing and giggling away. He was really mad when I brought him inside, but sure enough, his boots and socks were completely wet. I had to chase him all through the house to get some warm, dry clothes on him. Little stinker anyway. Sarah: Have a good trip, don't miss Hannah too much. How strange and sad to see your cousin on TV like that. I will keep your friend in my prayers. I feel for ya on the homefront too. My DH does almost nothing to help around the house. He get after me if I ask him to change lightbulbs or mention the truck needs to be vacuumed. He thinks I should be doing those duties too. Sometimes I wonder what he is useful for!! Just kidding, but it does irk me when he comes in and sits in front of the TV while I keep running around trying to pick up and clean the house. Better stop now or this post to you will go on for pages!!!!! Birdie: Yeah for Noah doing so well for his 1st haircut. I will e-mail you the info. Romaine: Good luck on your job hunt. Kahne: Thanks for the update on LuCynda. I wondered what was going on with her since she hadn't posted in so long. Rebecca: Glad Paige is feeling better. You are a brave woman to cut her hair. Colton won't sit still for me one bit. Chat with you ladies tomorrow. Julianne & Colton 19 mo email: jjones@batts.com Tuesday, February 22, 2000 at 10:47:50 (EST)) Good morning ladies...SARAH here. Today is my Friday!!! :) :) HANNAH is getting much better. Thank goodness she should be all better by the time we leave on Thursday! I'm gonna miss her soooo much!!! Also, please say a little prayer for us that we have a safe trip. I don't like flying, so I'm pretty anxious about it already!!! BIRDIE - I'll bet NOAH looks so cute with his new haircut. HANNAH still hasn't had one. Just her bangs trimmed. ROMAINE - Sorry about the position! Yes, I did get the picture of SABA!!! :) CUTIE!! KAHNE - Thanks for the update on LUCYNDA! I've been thinking about her. REBECCA - I'm glad PAIGE is feeling better! I know what you mean about a little "Thanks" would be nice!!! JULIANNE - Thanks for wishing us a good trip! Very cute story about COLTON playing in the puddles!!:) I'm glad I'm not the only one who feels I do everything!! Must be a "guy" thing!! :( LISA and KELLI - Where are you two???? How are you guys feeling? PATTY - Hi! Give JARIN a kiss for me!! :) Well ladies, that's all for now. If I don't get back on today, I'll "talk" to you all next Tuesday! Have a great week and weekend! Sarah and Hannah (17 months) email: smoore@geatoir.cfer.com Tuesday, February 22, 2000 at 11:41:54 (EST)) Hi gals - Hayley here. Recovering from the long, wet weekend - it was exceptionally tough to go to work today. Fortunately, Becca played in her room reading books as I was heading out the door - no pounding on the glass frontdoor with teary-sobs! Becca had quite a weekend of excitement - my BIL and SIL babysat her so that DH and I could have dinner and see a jazz concert. It went fine, except when I held my 6 mos. old niece - Becca went ballistic! Anyone else's kid jealous when mom holds or hugs another child? Yesterday, we went to brunch at a friends (2 other kids + dog for entertainment), took her to the SF zoo, and DH took her running in the jog stroller with his running club (the Hash House Harriers - anyone ever heard of them!) She was the hit of the Hash, with a bunch of women and men fawning over her. She also got her official Hash nickname - Stinky Butt (don't even ask!) Shelly - poor thing! I got off easy with my in-laws, who are dolls and are completely non-meddlesome (my own dad and mom died 20 years ago and last year, respectively). Maybe you and Jim need some space from her for a while. Sarah/Julianne - I hear ya about housework. Hubby doesn't lift a finger, and groans when I tell him our twice/month housecleaner is coming buy and he'll have to pick up the disaster in his office so she can vacuum. He doesn't even know how to turn the washer/dryer on - and last week, he was bitching to me that I "burned" his favorite sweat pants in the dryer. Men!!! Hayley hayley and rebecca (17 mos.) email: hayley.thompson@citicorp.com Tuesday, February 22, 2000 at 14:48:45 (EST)) Hello from Rita What a nice, long and lazy weekend. Dinner on Sat night was great (yummy lobster)! Poor Amy was inconsolable when we picked the girls up at my sister's house. She did well when all of the cousins and aunts/uncles were there to play with her. Once people started heading home after the BD party was over, she started to look around for me. Even my mom's magic touch couldn't calm her down. I had to rock her to sleep when we got home. She was a bit fussy at nap time during the rest of the long weekend - I am sure she was worried that I would not be around when she woke up. It was too wet for our trip to the park on Sun, so we lazed around and later went out so I could spend my BD loot at the scrapbook store and looked at possible new cars for me to cut commute costs. Maddy sang Happy BD to me all day long! Only a mom would have a rich chocolate cake with an Elmo BD candle 'cause DH forgot to get candles. He he! Debbie - Wow! I am so glad that you are all okay after your close call. What was that idiot trying to do? Some people ought not to be driving. Patty - I love hearing your stories about Jarin. I always feel that the day has been complete when I read your post and see how things are going for you. Shelly - I guess my mom is the other extreme. I never hear from her unless I call her. She hates to "bother" us. I wish that she was a little more involved so that the girls knew her better. Don't know what I would do with a different type of mom, though. I agree that you and Jim will probably need some space away from her to get back to the place where you want to be. It would be hard to work on building back up trust and all of the other things you need in a relationship with other people harping on about the past. Hang in there! Sarah - Have a good time in Green Bay. Lucky you to have another weekend so soon. Well, I had better get back to some work. Take care everyone! Rita & Amy email: ritad@home.com Tuesday, February 22, 2000 at 15:52:01 (EST)) Hi mommies. Thanks for all the support and happy vibes. You guys are the best. Jarin just fell asleep in my arms (nursing, of course) while I was reading the posts, so I just put him in his crib so I could type. He is so precious. I went to try to put him down for his nap earlier. His new thing is he has to have his Tigger when he nurses and gets ready for bed/nap. He has two different Tiggers, so we have to put one "night-night" in the crib, covered with a blanket, and he holds the other one. Well, we went in his room, he put his finger to his mouth, and goes "Shhhhh". How adorable is that? He wanted me to "shh" because Tigger was sleeping. So I said "shh, Tigger's sleeping" and then he kept smiling and doing it over and over again. Then he got down and started reading his book, one of those soft cloth ones that has the bear getting ready for bed. He turned each page and was doing the things it said (drink your milk, brush your teeth, put on your pajamas, etc.) He tried so hard to put the little pajamas on the little bear. His small motor skills aren't the greatest yet, but he didn't even get frustrated. He also built a Lego/Duplo tower with seven legos. He kinda got mad at them, but did stick with it until he got them put together. My little stinker. =) What am I thinking being upset when I have him around??? On a sad note, our counselor at school and his wife just had a new baby two months ago. They found out this weekend that he has Down's Syndrome. They had to go to a children's hospital because they thought he had a heart problem, but they found out everything is ok with his heart, so that's good news. The guy said that when you worry about your son's heart not working, "Down Syndrome becomes a moot point". Isn't that so neat? He says their faith is getting them through and now they are just changing their dreams for their son. =) **Kelli: Thanks so much for the nice e-card. **Kelli, Louise, Debbie, Julianne, Sarah, Helen: Thanks for all the positive thoughts and for letting me know you're not bored with my Jarin stories yet. =) **Melissa: Thanks for the pictures of Molly. She is so cute. I'm glad I make you think about wanting a boy. LOL. There is just something special about little guys. **Helen: LOL at DH packing his things and the idea scaring you. =) Yes, this teenage crap is definitely when parenting gets hard. I bet you have lovely pictures on your sheets now that Miss Amanda has put her artistry there. =) **Kahne: I hope school settles down for you soon. I wrote LuCynda a while back to see how she was doing and never heard from her. i will send her something as soon as I finish here. Thanks for the update. **Romaine: Thanks for the new picture of Saba. She is a little doll too. Your sweet night of cuddling sounds exactly like how I feel each night when I rock Jarin and nurse him. =) **Shelly: Hope the problems with your mom settle down soon. I agree with whoever said to just trust your own instincts. Good luck. I'll try to resend the pic of Jarin in the pumps. **Debbie: Too cute about your girls doing the "parade wave". I could just picture them doing it too. =) What an idiot in the blazer. Did the police have to come since he ran into something? **Julianne: Sounds like you had lots of fun skiing. I really have to try that before I am too old to do it. Good luck taking away Colton's bottles this week-end. I was LOL picturing you with the lamp shade on your head and changing diapers. Sounds like Colton had lots of fun in the puddles. I probably would've done exactly what you did. =) **Sarah: I hope you have fun in Green Bay! I must've missed something - I didn't know you were going to be gone so long! We will miss you around here. =) Yes, even though my DH is great and does help out quite a bit, there are times I get pissed and feel like I do everything too. Especially when he comes home and plops on the couch or in bed at night, and here i am cleaning the house, getting the kids ready for bed, etc. etc. I'm sure you know what I mean! That's so weird that you saw Stuart on TV. I'm sure it was heart wrenching. An attitude in high school? Surely not you! LOL. I hope everything works out ok for your friend and the triplets. Have a safe flight!!! **Birdie: We also took the video camera and regular camera to Jarin's first haircut, so I don't think you are corny at all. The only difference was I held Jarin and DH took the pictures. LOL **Rebecca: You are a brave woman to cut Paige's hair yourself. I'm glad she is feeling better. I guess I just was such a "good" teenager and really didn't talk back to my mom that I just don't understand where DD is coming from with her MOUTH!! **Hayley: Jarin is definitely one who is jealous when I hold other babies, so Becca is not alone. =) **Well, it is almost time to pick up Jesse and I still have to type a Midterm for school, so I'd better get going. Love you all! Patty and Jarin 17 3/4 months email: tematheny@ctlnet.com Tuesday, February 22, 2000 at 16:12:59 (EST)) Just one quick personal to Rita: You must've been posting when I was. Thanks for the pep talk and the encouragment. That's so sweet that Amy wanted to be with you so badly all week-end. Sounds like a Jarin act! He is doing so much better with my sister watching him on Wednesdays and SIL on Tuesdays and Thursdays. I even left when he was still sleeping this morning and SIL said when she got him up, he was just fine! Yay! Patty and Jarin Tuesday, February 22, 2000 at 17:18:41 (EST)) Hi from long-lost LisaB. Max had several loose stools this weekend and now has diaper rash. It's getting better but yesterday I told him "let's go change your diaper" and he started screaming and grabbed ahold of some furniture and refused to let go! Then he tried the kicking and hitting routine when I picked him up, but that didn't go far. Last night he got out his potty and tried to pull his pants down. I took off his pants and diaper and he sat on the potty, but didn't do anything. HELEN: How funny, Amanda helping DS shovel snow!! We'll miss you while you're in Florida. PATTY: We've been lucky - the local school has only had 1 snow day, which is VERY unusual for mid-Missouri in February. My MIL teaches part-time and said this may be the first year in a LONG time that the "proposed" last day will actually by the last day - LOL! If Indiana is like Missouri, it's WAY too hot to sit in non-air conditioned schools in June. How funny Jarin saying "shu". I was also really worried about weaning Max but by the time he did he was down to only a bedtime feeding and he adjusted better than I did (of course, I HAD to wean due to my surgery). SHELLY: How funny, Riley pointing his butt out to everyone!!!! LOUSIE: Hey, Helmet Head - LOL!!!!! My DH thinks I'm nuts for wanting to go to the Chicago thing (if it's not the same week as my 15-year high school reunion or too late in my pregnancy) - "why go that far to see a bunch of people you don't even know?", blah, blah, blah. PATTY: I hope you've feeling happier. Max talks on his toy cell phone - but mainly just listens, doesn't say much himself. I'm sure DD is about to drive you nuts - but you were probably the same way to your mother when you were her age - LOL!!! Just think, it could be worse. My 14-year old niece told my sis that 2 of her guy friends wanted to lose their virginity on 12/31/99 as a "cool millennium" thing. Can you imagine? The awful thing is that my sis wasn't concerned by this comment AND she let my niece go to a party with them on NYE. Any, by the way, your posts NEVER bore me. MELISSA: How you feel beter now. I had the stomach flu a week or so ago and it was miserable. Molly sounds so OLD and MATURE - "speak up", "this would be good". She's skipping the pre-school years and going straight to teenager - WATCH OUT!!!! KAHNE: So sound so busy. Yeah for Cat's new words. ROMAINE: Enjoy those cuddles while they last! SHELLY: After having 3 girls your mother should know that kids often exaggerate, esp. when they don't get their own way. Your Mom was WAY over the top, but try to see her side. She's probably just trying to protect you from getting hurt again. Still, you need to make it clear to her that seeing Jim again is YOUR decision and that you won't tolerate her criticizing him, esp. in front of the kids. DEBBIE: The girls sound adorable in the parade! Thank goodness you and the girls (and even the other driver) were all ok. I get soooo bad when these idiots pass on curves, going up hills, etc. If you want to risk your own life, that's fine - but don't risk mine and my children. JULIANNE: Glad you had fun skiing, even you were embarrassed. I'm such a klutz, I hate to think what I would do if I ever went skiing!! I can just picture you with a lampshade on your head - LOL!!! What is your class in? SARAH: Try not to miss Hannah too much … you and DH deserve to have some "couple" time. Yep, my DH is also worthless sometimes. I've been so tired that I've been in bed by 9 pm (except for last 2 nights). NOTHING gets done at night so I spent 1/2 the day Saturday trying to get dishes done, sweep the floor, sort the mail, pay bills, etc. He was better last week thou - even loaded the dishwasher 2 times for me. I had several bills that were paid late 2 weeks ago as I had sorted the mail and then tired out - so the bills never go in my "bill basket" and their due dates didn't get noted on my "bill calendar" - so I completely forgot to pay them UNTIL after they were due. OOPS!!! I'm sure it was hard seeing Stuart on TV. I'll pray for Jen; please keep us updated on her situation. BIRDIE: I held Max for his first haircut and made DH take several pictures for the first haircut. After that I just trimmed his hair at home when he needed it but I can only trim it if he's asleep - and now EVERYTIME I try to trim it he wakes up. I need to make an appointment for him as his hair is hanging over his ears and is real crocked in the back (as I cut part of it and then he woke up so I couldn't finish it!). ROMAINE: I'm sorry you didn't get the job you wanted. REBECCA: I'm glad you're feeling better. My DH expects "thanks" when he does things around the house - but I'M just EXPECTED to do it all without any thanks, appreciation, etc. I think most men are pretty oblivious to all the day-to-day housework we do. JULIANNE: You sound like a good Mom, letting Colton enjoy the slush and puddles!!! SARAH: I'm glad Hannah is feeling better. I was too busy/tired over the weekend to post and had yesterday off for President's Day. LisaB & Max (17 mo.) & 10 wk pg email: lisa_lab@hotmail.com Tuesday, February 22, 2000 at 17:46:24 (EST)) Hi Everyone, LuCynda here. I am so sorry I haven't posted and all of you who sent me pictures to put up on the web site I am even more sorry. I feel like I have let everyone down. Honestly I don't know when I will be able to get back to it. Things have been a bit crazy lately and I am doing some work for the guy I buy my computer equipment from. Besides all that, I am 28 weeks pregnant now and you all know how that is!!!!! The aches have hit me full force and I'm exhausted! Anyway, I miss everyone. Thanks Kahne for letting everyone know and thanks Patty for the e-mails. I saved the one so I could write you back but I haven't been able to get to it. DH got fired from his job and we really have no idea why. They wouldn't tell him anything, so we have been kinda struggling financially. But hey, I guess he wasn't meant for that kind of work. Things will pick up soon. He is starting school again in April, going into accounting. Hopefully that will work out for him. Anyway, I have a quick question. Anyones baby starting to crawl out of the crib??? Man, there is just no safe place for Cody these days. I use to put him in the crib when I showered and I would put him down for a nap, come downstairs and do laundry, but I don't really dare now. He crawls out. Which means that he crawls out half way and then falls out the rest!!! Argh! He also crawls over his safety gate! What were those manufacturers thinking when they made the gate with holes he uses like a ladder???? I feel like writing them and complaining and getting my money back and demanding they recall it. He has fallen over the top a few times. He could get really hurt! Here is another one. How do you all keep your babes in their high chair??? He crawls out of that too. None of my other kids ever crawled out or over things so much!!! He has only been walking for about two months now. I am surprised at home much he gets over things! Help!!!!!! Luv you all, LuCynda LuCydna and Cody email: lucyndah@telusplanet.net Tuesday, February 22, 2000 at 17:47:36 (EST)) Hi! Sarah g here. One sleeping kid, one kid playing on the floor! Just wanted to squeeze a quick post in before Sofie crawls away!! :) Dh actually had an interview last week and 2 yesterday!!!! My new strategy (jeez- that sounds horrible) is that I won't stop bugging him until he actually gets this job thing taken care of. So far, knock on wood, so good!!!!! Sarah- So sorry to hear about Hannah being so sick. Hope she has a quick recovery, and have a super time on your trip! Patty- I hope you are feeling better. I love to hear all your posts, don't worry about that. I understand about ups and downs, but it's almost like if things were always constant, that might make us even more nuts!! lol! (hope you know what I mean) Rita- Happy belated birthday! Too cool about the elmo candle!! :) Lucynda- Glad to see you back! Hope you are feeling well. Debbie- My goodness, glad you are all safe after your near accident! Lisa B- Hope Max recovers from his diaper rash! Poor guy! Romaine- I'd love to see pictures, and would be glad to send some your way as well. What a lovely cuddle story you posted! Sarah g, Isaac and Sofia email: gat_men@hotmail.com Tuesday, February 22, 2000 at 19:08:12 (EST)) Hi to all. Shelly here. Thanks to all who listened to me. I'm much better today. I just won't listen to anymore baloney! Riley is being sooo cute one minute and then a complete brat the next. My other 2 never went through the terrible 2's. They were sweet and then turned into monsters at 3. But Riley is a different story. Do you think that it is because he has different genes? I bought him new shoes, and now, he refuses to take them off. Either that or, he wants them off, on, off, on. He's doing great with Jim. Last night, Jim went to bed and I stayed up with Riley. Jim was in there snoring away and Riley says "Daddy Jim seeping" and then he starts making snoring sounds. I laughed so hard I woke poor Jim up. So today he was telling everyone what Daddy sounded like. It was so cute. And he has started saying "hello Mommy" But he has this accent and it is so adorable. I wish I could record it for you all. Monte has a gravelly voice and I think Riley will have the same. He just melts my heart!!!!!!!! Julianne, Louise, Rebecca and everyone else, Thanks for your words of wisdom! That is something I am short of these days, wisdom!LOL Sarah***I'm so sorry about your cousin. I do all the housework. Jim likes not helping so much he's an expert at it!LOL Actually, he's been busy pruning trees, cleaning the garage and doing "fixit" jobs around. Birdie***I've seen that movie too. It made babysitting hell! Rebecca***I went to about 400 hrs of Cosmetology School while I was living at home, so I used to cut Moriahs hair when she was young. One day, I had a migraine but she really wanted her bangs cut. I was so out of it that I cut her hair so short it stuck straight up. She looked like one of those Rocker guys from the 80's. Of course this was in the 80's but still she was really mad! Tell Paige to be sure her Mommy doesn't have a headache.LOL Haylee***I agree! Rita***Thanks for the encouragement. Isn't it funny how we all think someone elses Mom would be the one to have?! I wonder if our children will come to that conclusion when they are older? Patty***Didn't they know when the baby was born that it had Downs? Their attitude is great. So much can be done these days for D.S. children to help them live good lives. LisaB***Are you still sick? Lucynda***Hang in there. I think it is illegal for the employer to not give a reason. You should check with the Better Business Bureaur. Hang in there! Well, I'de better get my house cleaned up. Type at you all later! Shelly & Riley 22 months Tuesday, February 22, 2000 at 21:12:59 (EST)) I'm 24 and a SAHM of Miranda, 16 mo. I've never used the internet like this but I need some advice. Miranda is a great sleeper, she sleeps 12 hours at night and when we're at home takes a nap. The problem is she needs to be in her crib alone in her room to sleep. She will not sleep anywhere else with anyone else in the room, not even Grandma's house. We're going on a trip to Miss. in May for my sister's wedding, how will I ever get her to sleep in the hotel. We always bring her home at nap time so she'll sleep. should we do this or does anyone have any suggestions for getting her to sleep elsewhere? Heather email: ArizonaLea@AOL.com Tuesday, February 22, 2000 at 22:10:56 (EST)) Hello everyone, this is Sonata from BT with a question... Well I am already getting a little excited about what I want to do on Eray's(my son) birthday. We and live abroad non of the family members will be here. I was wondering what kind of celebrations you girls did with your little ones to give me an idea..and if you have a babyproof(!) birthday cake recipe that is not too unhealthy for him to eat. I am at the moment planning to invite a few babies (will be toddlers as well soon) and some of my close friends over here, and to decorate our apartment a little. I would appreciate all kinds of ideas! Thanks a lot Kisses to your little ones Sonata & Eray 10 months Wednesday, February 23, 2000 at 04:43:52 (EST)) Hi, Louise here. I'm in a horrible mood today because I have to work today to finish everything up by the end of the month, and I don't normally work on a Wednesday! Still, only 1 more week so I shouldn't really complain. James said bye-bye to me very casually today which somehow made me feel worse!! Not much else to report so straight onto personals: DEBBIE - Somehow I managed to miss your post last time I was on and I couldn't work out why everyone kept saying 'glad you're OK' - I went back and checked and saw your post about the near miss on the road so I thought I'd add my thanks that you're all OK! Don't know why I miseed that one! SARAH - By the time you see this you'll be back from your trip so I hope you enjoyed it and didn't miss Hannah TOO much. I can relate to the housework issue - I always think I'm lucky 'cos DH likes to cook, but it's always such a big deal when he does, and it's taken for granted when I do everything else .... also he always says to me 'don't stress about the housework, it'll get done..' Excuse me, but by who exactly?!! LOL! BIRDIE - That's not corny about the haircut. Oh and thanks very much - you've given me nightmares relating that horror film!! LOL! ROMAINE - sorry about the job. Doing .5 of it doesn't sound very satisfactory. MELISSA - did you send me pics of Molly? Yet AGAIN we seem to be having e mail problems at home so if you have, that's why I haven't acknowledged them - I'll check again tonight. If you didn't send them, please do, I think it's fixed! HAYLEY - James is also EXTREMELY jealous if I cuddle another baby, or even if I cuddle the cat! RITA - glad you had a good night out! Amy's obviously a Mummy's girl! PATTY - so cute about Tigger sleeping! Glad you're feeling better. I think we have the same cloth book about the bear going to bed, James loves it but also can't put the bear in the pyjamas! That is a shame about your school counsellor's baby, that must be a shock for a parent, but the 'changing the dreams for their son' attitude sounds great and courageous. LUCYNDA: Nice to hear from you. I'm sorry about DH's job. I'm sure these things are meant to be and it will work out in the end. SARAHG: Good luck for DH's interviews! That's a big step in the right direction! SHELLEY: Glad it seems to be working out with Jim. Great that Riley seems wo love him so much! HEATHER: Welcome! I was so relieved to see your post - sorry I can't help you, but I have EXACTLY the same problem with my 15 month old son. He naps like a dream in his own room, but won't settle anywhere else, and I have to structure my days/trips around his naps otherwise he won't sleep. I'll be interested to hear any advice you receive. SONATA: Hi! We kept James's birthday quite low-key, just a small family party which he really enjoyed. I won't give you any advice on cakes as I am the worst cake-baker in the world! Talk later, Louise & James (15 months) email: rnash78035@aol.com Wednesday, February 23, 2000 at 12:14:55 (EST)) Katy here sorry, no time for personals. Just wanted to let everyone know that I am still alive. This has beena busy time for me lately. Lots of projects and tests in school and then moving into the new house and all. Hopefully I will have time to write to everyone later. Hope you are all doing well. Katy and Liam email: princess__bride@hotmail.com Wednesday, February 23, 2000 at 14:46:20 (EST)) Hi from LisaB. I'll probably be posting less frequently, at least for a little while. We've had a big blowup with a person I supervise sending personal e-mail at work, etc. SO - they are going to be monitoring internet usage and e-mail really close (and as a supervisor I will get no slack if I get "caught"). Oh well, at least I now have weekend access at home so I can't get TOO far behind! Max figured out how to "give you five" - he does it and then laughs hysterically! I thought I taught him this Sunday … but apparently the sitter was working with him on it last week and everything was so hectic she forgot to mention it. She felt really bad when I told her about his new trick … and she had to tell me it wasn't new - LOL!!! DH was gone last night for the first time in 3+ months and Max was horrible. He would be happy and then all of a sudden start wailing, insisting I pick him up and carry him around, cuddling. Then I couldn't get him sound asleep without rocking him. The poor guy missed his daddy L Also, last week Max started crying everytime the 7-month old at daycare cries. Apparently he feels sorry for her! I hope that ceases before #2 arrives as my nerves probably can't handle 2 kids screaming at once!! LuCYNDA: I'm so sorry to hear about DH. Has he gone on unemployment? It's not much, but every little bit helps. If he goes back to school he should qualify for a pell grant - to cover both college AND living expenses. I have an accounting degree and there'll be tons of opportunities for DH after he completes school. Luckily Max hasn't tried to escape from the crib yet but he does constantly try to "escape" from the high chair. SarahG: Yeah on DH's interviews! Max's diaper rash is better already. SHELLY: Riley sounds like a little doll, imitating Jim's snoring! I'm actually feeling pretty good - not as tired, not as nauseous, etc. I hope I didn't just jinx myself by posting that - LOL!!! HEATHER: I imagine Miranda is so used to the "routine" of sleeping in her crib that she'll have problems sleeping anywhere else. I would start trying to get her to sleep in other locations ASAP so she doesn't go into major culture shock when she's forced to stay in a hotel. Do you have a playpen? If so, after she goes down for a nap and is sound asleep you might want to try transferring her to that - so she gets used to waking up in another location. I sometimes lay down with Max on my bed and let him nap there (surrounded by pillows so he won't fall off) and I also let him sleep on the couch occasionally (if I'm right there to keep an eye on him). Another thing you might try is introducing a little noise so Miranda isn't so used to complete quiet when she sleeps. You could turn on a tape, really soft, just before she wakes up to start with. GOOD LUCK!! SONATA: Hi, stranger! I was bad and just made a regular cake from a boxed mix for Max's birthday. My in-laws were there but my family wasn't (they live 5 hours away and we were going to visit them the following weekend). We called my family on the "big day" so they could wish Max a happy birthday. We also had a small party (juice and cupcakes) at daycare for Max. I think a small family with friends and other kids would be great! LisaB & Max (17 months) & 10 weeks pg email: lisa_lab@hotmail.com Wednesday, February 23, 2000 at 14:48:36 (EST)) Hayley here - DH and I were up late getting the car loaded for a 4 day ski weekend - it's amazing how much room the port-a-crib, baby backpack, etc. takes up. Could barely fit the skis! We're leaving tonight (weather permitting) and joining 3 other couples with kids, dogs, etc. in a house - yikes! Becca gave me a scare last night - I took her to a local restaurant/pub I used to frequent for someone's birthday. Had her sitting on a bar stool munching on cookies, dropped something, and in the 1 second I wasn't looking, she fell. Fortunately, the diaper bag was on the floor and broke her fall, but she still screamed at 11 for about 10 minutes. I felt like Social Services would come and take her away from me any second! And of course, here I am in the bar with my glass of wine while she's screamaing! Of course, 10 minutes later, you'd never know it happened, she was so busy running around and pulling on peoples' pants legs. I was Mrs. Paranoid all night, checking her constantly to make sure she didn't have a concussion or brain damage! Sonata - for Becca's 1st, we made carrot cake cupcates for her daycare - no nuts, since some kids are allergic. We actually didn't have a "real" party, since at 1, she wouldn't really know what's going on anyway. We'll make it up to her at 2! Heather - maybe try setting up a port-a-crib for your child to nap in - that's what most hotel use these days anyway. It'll be hard, but just let her scream for a while until she settles down. Eventually, she'll exhaust herself. Any other "comforts" you could try? Pacifier, bedtime toy, etc? Talk to you all Monday. hayley and becca, 17 mos. email: hayley.thompson@citicorp.com Wednesday, February 23, 2000 at 15:46:00 (EST)) A quick hello from Rita as I am off to a meeting. Keep your fingers crossed - I may have the new job soon. It is way over my grade level, so they are go to try and find a happy medium with HR so that I can have the job. It would still mean a promotion and a new location closer to home. Romaine - Saba is adorable. I love the picture you sent. I can now picture her saying and doing all of those wonderful things. Melissa - Molly does have that gleam in her eyes! I didn't see a pitchfork, just a lot of spirit. Sonata - Hello! In the "What to Expect the First Year Book" I think there is a recipe for a healthy first birthday cake. A small party sounds perfect - not too much to overwhelm Eray. Lisa B - I am so relieved to see your post. Too bad about the internet police at work. We have to do something so you and Beth can post as often as you used to. Glad to hear that things are going well, knock wood. I sure hope that you can come to Chicago. I am going to do whatever it takes to get there. Oops - Gotta get going. Take care everyone! Rita & Amy email: ritad@home.com Wednesday, February 23, 2000 at 16:07:39 (EST)) Hi I'm Jennifer, we're new here. My children are Ashton, he is almost 2 1/2 and Madison who'll will be 7mnths in a few days. We have been on the spirited toddler board on and off for a few months, but, no one ever seems to be there consistently. Well I have a question with discipline that I'm ready to pull my hair out over. Ashton is a tough child he refuses to listen to anything that you say, regardless of how you say it. Mostly coming from me. If he wants to do something, he will either ignore your requests or throw a massive tantrum (fall down screaming ). Very strong willed. And I have tried everything with no success. I keep hoping it will pass. Maybe just a phase, but, I find myself consumed with it! It's been going on now since he was 18 mnths old and he shows no signs of improving. I would love any advice you all have to offer. I am my wits end with this boy! thanks, Jen Jennifer ~ Ashton(30mths) & Madison(7mths) email: jacashmad@yahoo.com Wednesday, February 23, 2000 at 21:07:01 (EST)) Hi, Christi here, finally Things are going okay here, Caleb has figured out to scream (okay how to scream louder) when he doesn't get his way, and just plop himself on the floor. I didn't get a chance to read all of the posts, but tried to read all of todays. SHELLY*** Glad Riley is getting along well with Jim, good luck to you guys! HEATHER*** Welcome to Miranda and you! I love her name! SONATA*** We always got a normal cake for all of the guest and a cupcake for the birthday child. It is less mess, and they can totally destroy it. Maybe try carrot cake if you want a healthier cake. MELISSA*** Can I have a picture of Molly? LISA B.*** Watch out for those internet cops! Its really fun to ask for 5 then pull your hand away, Caleb thinks that is so funny. Then he is so cool when he "wins" RITA*** Good luck with the new job LuCYNDA*** I hope all works out soon. JENNIFER*** Welcome, sorry I cannot be of any help. ROMAINE*** Could I get a picture of Saba? I think I have your address wrong, Caleb's pictures came back to me. Almost time for bed for me, hopefully I will start getting back everyday. Christi & Caleb 15 months email: plumbs@coiinc.com Wednesday, February 23, 2000 at 22:44:32 (EST)) Thanks for all your suggestions on getting Miranda to sleep in other places. I do have a pack and play and I use it with all the regular items that are in her crib at home complete with pacifier. She wont lay down with me or anyone else in the room. I think I'll try setting up the pack and play here at home and getting her used to it here, then try her at Grandma's! It's frustrating to me not knowing what to do with her. I have a degree in early childhood development and I've been working with toddlers in a daycare setting for 6 years, but now that the child is mine the game has changed! All those theories and logical conclusions just don't seem to fit anymore! Thanks again! Heather and Miranda 16 mo. email: ArizonaLea@AOL.com Wednesday, February 23, 2000 at 23:06:05 (EST)) Hi mommies. It was so beautiful here today - 68F. I took Jarin for a walk after work. He LOVED being outside and didn't want to come in for anything. He missed his nap and was an absolute terror by about 5:00. Finally, he went to sleep and I had to wake him aroun 7:45. Then he screamed for almost 45 minutes because he was so tired. I just put him to bed. He had so much fun today though. It was nice to be able to be outside!!! LisaB: Sorry to hear about Max's diaper rash. Hope it is better soon. Still no weaning going on here. LOL. My gosh, what a sick comment that a cool way to bring in the millenium would be to lose your virginity!! What is wrong with these kids??? Too cute that Max gives 5 now. **LuCynda: Good to hear from you!!! Sorry to hear about DH losing his job. I'm sure things are tough for you guys right now. I hope something new comes up soon. Jarin crawls out of his high chair all the time, but I always sit right next to him, so i just put him down. He hasn't figured out how to crawl out of the crib yet though. **Sarahg: Thanks for your comments. I appreciate them. I'd love to see Sofia and Isaac if you have new pics. **Shelly: I love little gravelly voices - I'm sure Riley melts your heart with his. So cute that he is imitating Jim snoring! =) No, the couple didn't know ahead of time their baby had Down's. I thought that was sort of weird too, but apparently it never showed up or maybe they never had any of the tests that would've shown it. **Heather & Miranda: Welcome. Sorry no suggestions on sleeping, but I have to tell you my niece has the same name. We all call her Randa or sometimes Randana. LOL **Sonata & Eray: Hi stranger! We ordered a cake for Jarin with Winnie the Pooh on it and only had a small party with just our two families. **Louise: Sorry you had a horrible day of extra work. My day was awful too. My class was terrible today. i was so glad to be able to come home and go for a walk! Isn't that bear book the greatest? I just wish Jarin could figure out how to get those pjs on the bear. Of course he never wants mommy to help. =) **Katy: Glad to hear you are ok. Hope school calms down for you soon. Good luck moving in the new house. **Hayley: Glad to hear Becca was ok after the stool incident. It's amazing how fast they can fall. I know I've felt the same way. **Rita: Crossing my fingers and sending ++++ job vibes your way. **Jennifer: Welcome to you, Ashton, and Madison. Sorry to hear about the tantrums. You said it is really bothering you and I don't know if this will help, but if Ashton knows it's bothering you that much, maybe totally ignoring the tantrums would help??? Just a suggestion that if he doesn't get the attention he wants maybe he'd stop?? **Christi: I was wondering where you've been. Sorry to hear that Caleb has started the tantrums too. Seems to be going around. LOL **Gotta go. DD needs the computer. Take care everyone. Patty and Jarin - almost 18 months email: tematheny@ctlnet.com Wednesday, February 23, 2000 at 23:36:53 (EST)) Hi, Romaine here. Some worrisome news. Leanne has been in the hospital for the last 2 days b/c she has been having contractions. She is only 28+ weeks. They have given her meds to stop them. Please pray that the baby does not come yet. She is (obviously) very upset; worrying about the baby and her girls. She is lucky that Mom is there to look after them. I really hope that at worst, she is on bedrest (which would be VERY hard w/ 3 kids!!); but it would be better than her having such a young preemie. On a lighter note, it looks like I may get the other .5 of the job. They have to post it again, but the principal was asking how I would feel about the arrangements and if I could come visit the class b4 the job commences. It is a small class of super kids (I am told by the principal and my friend that currently holds the position). My current position is younger children, but lots of behaviour problems. I NEED a break from that. I have had too many years of dealing w/ severe behaviour. I am burning out. That is why I wanted the other half, b/c it was a non-classroom environment. EXCITING news!!!!!! Saba PEED in the potty tonight!!!!!!! She knew she was b/c she would say "pee-pee go down", look then sit again. "More pee-pee..."!!!! It started b/c she had peed a little when I was drying her from her bath. I suggested that she go on the potty. She did and little dribbles were coming and going w/ her commentary! I thought that she would bm too b/c she kept saying "poop go down.." Only a toot came from that one!!! Could it be that she is about to embark on the road to potty-training???? Melissa- The address is correct. I am so disappointed that it bounces back. I have that trouble w/ one on BT and I don't know why. Try DH's, jrancier@hotmail.com. Make sure that you state in the topic that it is for me or it willend up deleted b/c he won't recognize the address. He gets TONS of junk-mail. Julianne-You were allowing him to explore, but you did keep his feet in mind and looked after that too! You are not a bad mommy!:) Saba was puddle-jumping w/ DH today. It took 2+ hours for a walk that is less than 1! Sarah-Glad that you liked the pic! Thanks for the job thoughts, there is still hope! Prayers go out for your safe flight! Have a good time!!! Hayley- Have a great ski trip!!! Rita-How cute of Maddy to sing HB all day!!!! HB from me too! Glad that you liked pic! Patty-How sad for the family, but it sounds like they are dealing w/ it w/ a super attitude! Lisa B-thanks for the job thoughts. It may be ok after all. Sorry to hear about internet police... Sarah g-I will try to get them out to you! Heather-Welcome! Louise-Thank-you for your thoughts! It actually won't be too bad. I do have a f/t position to go back to, but see early in post. Jennifer-Welcome! Christi- I will get them out to you shortly! I would like to see anyone's pics when they send them out! I took more pics this am of the girls, but have not figured out how to load from the camera to here. Romaine and Saba 23 mos email: rrantry@yahoo.ca Thursday, February 24, 2000 at 00:47:06 (EST)) Hi all, it's Michelle. I just sent a picture of Riley to some of you that asked for one. Hopefully it worked. If I missed anyone please let me know. Patty and Louise - I hope you are feeling a little better now. It's tough to feel so blue when we know we should feel so great because of our wonderful children. My thoughts are with you. Melissa - thanks for your input on depo. Romaine - From Cuddles to peeing on the potty! WOW. That's great, keep up the good work Saba. Debbie - OMG, that must have been absolutely awful. I probably would have gone over and given him a piece of my mind. I'm proud of you for keeping your cool. Some people are just idiots when it comes to driving. I'm so glad everyone is ok. Birdie - The first real haircut is so sad isn't it. It's hard to have a baby looking like a little boy all of a sudden. No, it's not corny, I have pics and hair too, just no video of it (only because I never thought of it). LOL. Hayley, Julianne and Becca - Housework... sigh. My dh actually got mad at me yesterday because I wouldn't let him take the clothes out of the washer before they got the extra rinse with fabric softener! He wanted to wash his jacket! He never does laundry so why should I worry about what is in there and for how long? OOOOOh. MEN! Lol LuCynda - PLease start to feel better soon. Sorry you aren't feeling the best. A climber huh? Riley does that too. I bought a harness that zips up in the front (it's webbing) and has a piece that comes off each side just under his arms and you can clip it on to the actual belt (when it's done up) in the highchair but it totally holds them in. Sometimes I wonder who invented the seatbelts in highchairs and strollers! Not to smart. We finally bought a second gate to keep Evan in or out of places. We put one over top of the other. He can't climb over that. And the crib - you may be able to take off the one side that lowers down. (and completely childproof the room). I have a friend who did that and sometimes her little one fell asleep on the floor and sometimes climbed back in the crib/made to a bed. It's probably safer than climbing over the bars. GOOD LUCK with the little monkey! that's it for now. dh is upstairs telling me it's time to come to bed. Michelle, Riley 17 mo and Evan 2 1/2 email: mwells@telusplanet.net Thursday, February 24, 2000 at 01:35:51 (EST)) Hi, very quick post from Louise - just to say a big THANKS to PATTY, MELISSA, MICHELLE, BETH and KAHNE for the recent pictures - I finally got the e-mail sorted - all yur kids are adorable and it was great to see them. I'll post later, Louise & James (15 months) email: rnash78035@aol.com Thursday, February 24, 2000 at 06:59:39 (EST)) Hi from CathyG.. It's really busy at work, which is better than when I first started back. We have had an eventful few days. It started on Sunday, when we were at a friend's sister's place. My kids were the only ones there (I had at first declined because they would have to come, but I was encouraged to bring them). All went well for ah hour and a half, and then there was a big thump - alison had pulled down a fishbowl in one of the kid's rooms updatirs, and it had broken!! We were able to rescue the 2 fish, and after we cleaned everything up it was off to the pet store to buy replacement bowl and rocks - $36!! The next day, Emma came home from school with a fever, and then threw up on the carpet in my room. The next day, Alison developed pink eye. I was quite happy to get back to work yesterday, and also to have DH back - he missed all this. However, I did have a wonderful day off on Saturday at the cropping day - I got 18 pages done, and am up to mid 1998 for Emma! Okay - on to personals: Helen - I hope you are having a great time right now - I am jealous! Sarah - you'd better stock up on washable tops. I can imagine your shock and subsequent feelings seeing your cousin. My late grandfather was in a music video, and I would see it occasionally after he died - it is an eerie feeling! I hope your firiend is OK. Rita - good luck on the job front. LisaB - could you hear Max's heartbeat at 10 weeks? I couldn't with either of mine until the next visit. Hope Max's bum is better. Beth - yes, corn does have interesting results. I made a salad with corn and beans a couple of nights back, as Alison had been having really hard ones, it should help. Christi - Glad Caleb is doing better. Your prices sound low to me, but we are probably in a bigger centre. Patty - I hope you are feeling less blue. I was surprised that you are going to school until mid June and that this is long. Our kids go till around the 20th. Jarin sounds so cute covering his face, and shh-ing Tigger. Alison does the shh too, and it is so cute. Your friend's attitude re. Downs baby is amazing - and quite inspirational. Michelle - Riley is like Alison not wanting to go to sleep.Louise - I pictured you (although I can't really, so I pictured a MOM) wearing the helmet and laughed. You must be excitied about the work ending! Melissa - Glad you are over the stomach flu. I enjoyed your latest Molly tale - about you speaking up. Thanks for making my city sound exotic! Romaine - what a wonderful description of your cuddling. Good for Saba on the potty. Shelly - my comments on your Mom are probably old by now, but I was going to say that she is probably just concerned for you, it just didn't seem that way. Debbie - What is Whiskey Flat all about - it sounds fun. Thank god things worked out on the road!! Julianne - Glad you had fun skiing. I think you are a good mommy for letting your little one have a good time. We worry about details like being clean and dry too much. Rebecca - glad Paige's ears are better. Hayley - Alison gets a bit jealous when I hold another baby/child too. Have a good trip. Lucynda - Alison does not yet climb out of her crib (touch wood), but she does try to get out of her high chair. I don't know what to do, except that I get her down and her dinner is finished when she starts. She won't do it at the sitter's. Heather - You may have a rough night, but she will sleep. If she has any security objects it might help. Jennifer - sorry I don't have any advice - haven't had the problems, yet!! Take care everyone. CathyG and Alison Thursday, February 24, 2000 at 13:51:08 (EST)) Julianne here finally. My computer was down since Tuesday and when the computer guy came to fix it today it was working just fine! Figures. I have good news. I got a new job. I start on the 13th so I will have one week off in between jobs. I am really excited. It is a HR rep position focusing in employee relations. My IL's watched Colton last night while I was at night class and had tons of fun w/ him again. He is such a showoff there. When they gave him a bath he said "uh-oh", stood up and peed. They got the biggest kick out of that. When he came home he was so tired he looked like a zombie. He still thought he should get to play though and got mad when I sat him by DH & me on the couch. A few minutes later his head was just a bobbing and he was out. Such a cutie, so afraid he is going to miss out on some fun. Hayley: Sounds like Becca had lots of fun the past few days. I'm sure the Hash nichname will come back to embarrass her. Have a great ski weekend. Glad Becca wasn't hurt in her fall. Rita: Sorry Amy missed you so much on your lobster night out. Too funny about the Elmo candle. At least you had one. Hope you get the job. Patty: Too sweet about Jarin shushing for sleeping Tigger. Colton has a very short patience fuse. If he can't do somehting right away he skwaks like a crazed bird and then throws the toy. Yeah for the nice weather. It is in the 60's here too. LisaB: Hope Max gets over his ouchie butt soon. Yeah for the potty chair progress. Colton will sit on the chair and say pee pee, but has never actually peed in it yet. Too bad about the internet cops at work. We will miss your daily posts. I am going to school to prepare for an exam that will certify me as a HR Professional. LuCynda: Glad to hear from you. Sorry about DH and his job. Tell him good luck at school. There sure are lots of accounting jobs available here. Have fun keeping track of Cody the escape artist. Sure hope he doesn't get hurt. SarahG: Sounds like your new strategy w/ DH is working. Shelly: Too cute about Riley snoring. Thanks for the picture. What a cute pose. Heather: Welcome. Not sure what to tell you as I have not had any problems in that area. My SIL is in the same situation though but she refuses to let her daughter nap or sleep anywhere but at home. Sonata: I had both of our families over for Colton's 1st b-day. I grilled lunch, opened presents, & served cake & ice-cream. Way too much. I didn't get to enjoy much of the celebration. I found construction equipment trucks for cake decorations and Colton has had lots of fun playing w/ them. Jennifer: Welcome. Let Ashton know that what he is doing hurts your feelings so you don't want to be near him and walk away. Try to make him feel bad for what he is doing. Romaine: Sorry to hear about Leanne. I will be praying for her & the baby. Hope you get the job. Way to go w/ Saba & the potty. CathyG: Oops--what a mess w/ the fish. Sorry the kids are sick. Pinkeye is going around at Colton's dc now and I sure hope he doesn't get it. 18 pages!! WOW!! Julianne & Colton 19 mo email: jjones@batts.com Thursday, February 24, 2000 at 14:51:58 (EST)) HELP!! My daughter (17.5 MO) bites her self in anger and frustration. She bites hard enough that the bite marks will last all day long and she continually does this. I have tried to tell her no other ways than saying "no". I am trying to help her "deal" with her anger and frustration by verbalizing her frustrations/anger and trying to come up w/ a solution. She doesn't bite others, just her self... Mi helle & Maddie email: lakt8guru@earthlink.net Thursday, February 24, 2000 at 15:53:03 (EST)) Rebecca here... Okay, so the cold bug has now moved through the family and has hit me full force. On the plus side, DH is home today so I get to rest. Not that any cold could keep me away from here!!!LOL Sonata - I served carrot cake at Paige's bday. I also had cheese and crackers and a few other munchies out. We did 1 to 3 so I didn't have to serve a meal. I recommend keeping it short since it's alot of stimulation for little kids. Also, make sure that ANYTHING precious or breakable is out of the way. Eray may know not to touch, but other kids won't. Just remember that the first bday party is for the parents, so leave some time for you to enjoy it! Heather & Louise - Paige is very similar. She usually only naps in her crib. I've started taking her for walks and drives so she can fall asleep elsewhere. Oh, and at my mom's we had to let her cry it out once and now, she just falls asleep. Structure and routine is very important to kids and hard for them to let go. I can tell you that an occasionally missed nap won't hurt them (though it may lead to crankiness later LOL). LuCynda - My brother was climbing out of his crib at one year. My mom took the side off his crib so he wouldn't hurt himself. My friend also bought one of those foam puzzle mats to cushion the drop. You may want to put a gate up in the doorway to stop early morning exploration. Welcome to all the new mommies! I'm off for a nap. Hope all of you are well! Rebecca & Paige email: burn@canadawired.com Thursday, February 24, 2000 at 16:36:22 (EST)) Hi, Michelle here. THings are seeming a little slow around here today? What a day we had yesterday! Riley came running in to the living room with his blankie and tripped on it and hit his head on the floor register and now has a big goose egg and cut and then last night we were at the mall and Evan was running while looking down at the squares on the floor and ran straight in to a vendor in the middle of the mall with a marble counter! OUCH. It knocked him right on his butt. Terry and I both looked up just in time to see him hit and yell but it was too late. It was so sad but on we couldn't help but laugh because it was a little humorous. Is that mean or what. LOL. Anyways - they've both survived. It was so funny, while we were shopping whenever I'd go in to a store with Riley in the double stroller he would yell "mon honey". "Cmon Honey" to dh. The first time we both burst out laughing. It's because I always call dh honey. I guess he just picked up on that. Anyway - we had fun. Cathy G. Glad you had fun cropping on Saterday but sorry to hear about your mishaps and illness with Emma and Alison. I came in to the living room today to find Riley with his arm up to the elbow inside a stuffed pillow. There was pillow fluff ALL over the place and instead of getting mad I had to run for my camera so I could make a scrap book page! He was throwing it up in the air and laughing. I can't wait to get the pics back. Do you find yourself doing things like that now that you are scrapbooking? Julianne - Congratulations on your new job! That's wonderful. A week off isn't so bad either. LOL. Colton sounds so cute falling asleep with you guys on the couch. Rebecca - enjoy your nap. Michelle - sorry, I don't have a clue what to do about biting but it really sounds like you are doing pretty much everything that you can. Hopefully others may have so advice for you. Take Care everyone! Michelle, Riley 17 mo and Evan 2 1/2 email: mwells@telusplanet.net Thursday, February 24, 2000 at 17:07:50 (EST)) Hi, Sarah g here- Hope you all are doing well. Thanks everyone for the positive thoughts regarding dh. Romaine- I'm so sorry to hear about Leanne's situation. My thoughts are with Leanne and family for a healthy rest of the pregnancy, and a healthy baby. Congrats to Saba going potty! That's super. Katy- what are you studying? Louise- Sorry you had to work on a day you normally don't. No fun. Soon you'll be staying home (part time?), is that right? Heather- I used to take Isaac on walks every day to get him to nap until he was about 20 months, only because I couldn't stand to let him cry it out. I don't know if that would help or not. good luck! Shelly- Glad you're feeling better. Congratulations on working things out w/dh!! We just never know what life will bring next, huh? LisaB- We'll miss your regular posts!! Love to hear about Max's latest adventures. Hayley- It certainly seems to be a fact that if you look away for 1 second something terrible will happen, we've experienced that plenty! Glad to hear Becca recovered quickly. Hope your ski trip goes well. Rita- Fingers crossed!! Keep us posted :) Jennifer- welcome! It's hard to know what will work with different children, but based on my experience with my son, daily routine seems to help us alot (not too much slack time). We talk about him being a good helper and following directions and the consequences that follow when he can't be a helper (time out). Nothing works all the time, but consistently that reasoning helps alot. Good luck! Christy- Hi! Patty- what a nice day!! You guys deserve the break in the weather. I'll get pictures out to you soon. Michelle- I'd love to see a picture of Riley. I'd be glad to send some of my kiddos if you want. Cathy G- Sorry you had such a bumpy couple of days. 18 scrapbook pages!! wow! It's nearly a lost cause over here- I've only got Isaac up to 4 mo and Sofie's baby shower only!! SOMEDAY! lol Julianne- hey stranger! Congrats on the new job!!!! A week off in between sounds nice. The uh- oh and pee pee sounds way too funny!! Michelle and Maddy- I wonder if when Maddy becomes more verbal some of the biting will cease? My son bit other children alot when he was about 15-18 months old, but as he started talking more he got much better. best wishes. Rebecca- Hope your family is feeling better soon. Michelle- Sorry about Riley's crash at the mall- I know it's terrible to laugh, but sometimes it can't be helped. Sounds like Riley is a crack-up. That "mon honey" is hilarious! Melissa- would you like to exchange pictures? Well ladies, Isaac and Sofia spent the afternoon at mil's today while I went to a workshop at the community college about careers in graphic/web design. It was pretty interesting, mostly learned that I still have LOTS to learn before I can get a real job. (p a t i e n c e . . .) Isaac has been having pretty nice days lately, but he sure wakes up grumpy from his naps. Sofie is happily weaned and I'm finally almost back to normal. Thanks for the input about the bottle everyone. I settled on an early a.m. bottle and a night time one as well. She really enjoys her cups during the day :) Hey- I forgot to tell you guys, my brother and sil just had their second baby 2 wks ago!! Jonah Eugene, Feb 9, 8lb 2 oz 21 in. He's already so much bigger! btw- has anyone heard from Beth? Well, I really ought to go do something productive like homework.... :) Sarah g, Isaac, and Sofia email: gat_men@hotmail.com Friday, February 25, 2000 at 01:43:04 (EST)) Hello it' Sonata from BT board again THANK YOU all so much for all the input and ideas about Eray's first birhtday. I will stick with a small party with few people and babies. I will bake carrot cake for my munchkin! I am thinking about decorations and printing color invitations from my computer so that I can keep one of the invitations as a memory in his book. Thanks again See ya all in less than 2 months Love Sonata & Eray 10 months Friday, February 25, 2000 at 03:26:29 (EST)) Hi all, it's Michelle. So far we are having a great day here - it's only 8:40 am though so time will tell. LOL. Evan - 2 1/2 years is being just the sweetest. He wanted to watch Tarzan while he ate his breakfast and there is a preview at the front about Disneyworld, there is a song in it that says "put your hands, on the future..." and Evan says - Mommy, I want to go there with you, it's the future!! It was sooo cute! Then... while he was watching and I'm here reading he tells me he has to go pee so I said ok, go ahead, now he can go all by himself, but he sits down. I called to see if he needed help and he comes out all happy and says "MOM, I PEED STANDING UP, LIKE DADDY!! ME DON'T DO THAT, JUST DAD. ME DID IT TOO!! He was so proud and I just had to laugh (and go check to make sure he actually hit the potty). I MISSED the WHOLE thing. His first stand up pee and I missed it. LOL. ANYWAYS... How come things are so slow on the board. I can't believe it, I can actually keep up but I miss everyone. Sarah g. WOW, web design huh? That's funny because the reason I am on here so bright and early this am is because last night I started to make a family web page and I REALLY didn't want to go to bed because I was so excited about it! So, I'm here to continue with it. Hopefully it turns out well. It's my first web page. Do you have one for your family? Romaine - I'm so sorry to hear about Leanne. I'm anxiously awaiting to hear more news and wishing her well. Have a great day everyone. Michelle, Evan 2 1/2 and Riley 17 mo email: mwells@telusplanet.net Friday, February 25, 2000 at 11:58:40 (EST)) Hi from CathyG... I agree with Michelle - it is very quiet here today - where is everyone?? We are doing well, although I think I've got pinkeye now. If it's not feeling better I will have to go to the clinic tomorrow. We got a new vacuum last night (so exciting) and Alison is calling it a noo-noo it is so cute, I think it will probably stick. Julianne - I am so happy for you about your job. You must be so relieved. Paige - I hope you had a good nap - I sure felt like having one in a meeting this morning!! Michelle - Poor Riley with his goose egg, but he must have been so cute saying mon honey. Yes, I am taking more pictures now, with the album in mind. Sadly, I didn't have my camera around for the fish, but probably just as well for their sake. Good for Evan, he must have been so cute. SarahG - web design sounds so neat - what will you have to do to get there? Take care all, I have just had a meeting pushed up to noon, so I have to go get some food!! CathyG and Alison (18 months) Friday, February 25, 2000 at 12:39:57 (EST)) Happy Friday everyone. Colton has been real whiney lately before bedtime and when he first wakes up. He just acts all out of sorts. I hope it isn't his ear bothering him. We just finished the latest dose of medicine and his ENT appointment is still 4 weeks away. I may have to get him in to see his dr for an ear re-check before then. I was on a cleaning frenzy last night. I actually vacuumed and mopped the steps going down to the basement! I also had to clean the kitchen carpet. DH let Colton knock over the pop the other night and didn't realize until half of it was on the carpet that the top wasn't on tight! At least it came clean. I was wore out when I went to bed and then ended up spending half the night on the couch w/ Colton. He is back to waking up during the night and I don't want to bring him to bed w/ us. We all overslept this morning because I forgot to set the alarm. Luckily Colton woke up around 7 saying "toot-toot" to the trains on his wall. Michelle: Maybe try to find something like a pillow for Maddie to bite and get her frustration out on. Explain that instead of hurting herself when she is mad to use the pillow. That way you will know when she is mad and can talk to her about why she is mad. This might help her to begin to express her feelings more. Good luck. Rebecca: Hope you feel better soon as being sick is no excuse to miss posting. Just kidding. Michelle: What a fun shopping adventure. I would have laughed too. Good job Evan peeing like Daddy. Sorry you missed that moment. CathyG: Too cute about Allison calling the vacuum "noo-noo". Take care ladies and tots and have a great weekend. Julianne & Colton 19 mo email: jjones@batts.com Friday, February 25, 2000 at 14:15:58 (EST)) Hi and happy Friday from Sue and Cameron. Haven't visited the board in a week or so, and am surprised you ladies have been kind of mellow - usually I can't keep up from day to day! Nothing much going on here with us. It's been damp and rainy and dreary all day. I'm having a hard time staying awake. Thankfully there's only another hour left to my day. Here's a classic DH story you'll enjoy. Last night I was upstairs giving Cam his bath when I heard dh turn on the dishwasher down in the kitchen. About 10 minutes later, I hear "OH NO!" then hysterical laughter. I yelled down to ask what had happened when he appears at the top of the stairs with a bottle of "Dawn" dish liquid and nonchalantly says "I guess this isn't the same as Cascade, huh?" I had suds everywhere! They poured out of the door and every seam on the dishwasher. We were mopping them up until about 10:00 last night and had to run the dishes through 5 or 6 times before the suds died down. I suppose dh won't even attempt another household chore for another year now! Hey, at least my kitchen floor was sparkling clean this morning. That's about it from my neck of the woods. Haven't been feeling so hot for the past couple of weeks (major AF problems) so I'm kind of "blah." I'll try to catch up with you all next week. Have a great weekend. It's supposed to be way above average temps here in New England, so I'm hoping to get outside lots. Hugs and kisses to all the little ones. Sue and Cameron email: sbarry@key.org Friday, February 25, 2000 at 16:53:09 (EST)) Ha Ha Sue - I can't believe your dh did that?? Too funny, I can just picture it now. How have you been feeling lately? Cathy G - You're right, it's probably good you didn't have your camera with you, I doubt they would have appreciated your snapping pictures while their fish is flopping on the floor. I can see them trying to pick it up and you saying - wait! One more, I want to make sure I get a good one. lol Julianne - Yay for cleaning! I must say - it's probably about time I did my basement stairs too. Yuck. Sorry Colton isn't sleeping to wonderful these days - hopefully he gets better at it soon so you can get refreshed for another cleaning escapade. MIchelle Evan and Riley email: mwells@telusplanet.net Friday, February 25, 2000 at 17:12:19 (EST)) Hi from LisaB. Poor Max is teething and has a cold and has strep throat. I took off early Weds. as he had a 101 fever. It went down at home after Tylenol and he drooled like crazy so I thought it was teething. The sitter called at 11:30 yesterday and he was at 100.5. I had an important meeting so I told her to give him Tylenol and I would call her back in a hour. At 12 she called - he was 102.8 and fussy. I skipped the meeting and took him to the doctor. He was feverish all night so he slept with us (so I could monitor him). I was up 2 times to give him Tylenol and then made DH take him so I could go sleep on the couch. At least his diaper rash went away. He had 2 messy diapers at the doctors office - and someone (DH? Me?) forgot to refill the wipes so I only had 3. I ended up using wet paper towels (OUCH!) to clean the poor little guy up. HAYLEY: DH and I are discussing getting a minivan as we don't hardly have room for the 2 of us, Max, and all Max's gear when we take the 5-hour trip to my parents. I'm glad Becca survived her fall. As a formerly frequent hotel resident (due to a lot of travel for work) I respectively disagree with your advice to Heather. I wouldn't recommend that anyone let their child "cry it out" in a hotel - it's incrediably inconsiderate of the other hotel guests, especially the ones that have to get up early to go to work. RITA: I hope the job comes through! I also hope I make it to Chicago, but it'll just depend on when they have it. JENNIFER: Welcome! Max will be right at 2 when #2 is born so our kids will have about the same age difference between them. How do you respond when Ashton throws a temper tantrum? If he's safe, I would just walk off and leave him so he learns the tantrums won't get him anywhere and therefore aren't worth the effort. CHRISTI: Aaahhh, the fun screaming tantrums occur at your house also! PATTY: It's great that you got some warm weather after all that snow. ROMAINE: OMG, I'm so sorry to hear about Leanne. She'll be in my thoughts and prayers. I hope the job comes through. YEAH on Saba using the potty. MICHELLE: Can I have a pix of Riley please?! CathyG: Everything always falls apart when DHs are gone! Sorry about the fish bowl … but the parent's should have known to move it up to where Alison couldn't get to it. I hope the kids both feel better now. My OB uses a doppler and can hear the heartbeat fairly early - heard it at 10 1/2 weeks with Max but couldn't hear this baby's yet at 10 weeks. JULIANNE: Congrats on the new job!!! Max peed on my foot Tuesday night. I was filling the tub and undressed him … when all of a sudden my foot was soaked! He hadn't peed on the floor for ages and it surprised me - I stood there for a minute thinking "where is this liquid coming from". DUH - stupid Mommy brain!!! SHELLY: Can I see the picture that you sent Julianne? Please???? MICHELLE: I don't have problems with Max biting (yet) but I wonder if it'll help to give Maddie a stuffed animal or baby doll that she can bite. Then again, that might just encourage her to bite others instead of herself! REBECCA: I'm sorry you have a cold. MICHELLE: Nope, you aren't mean for laughing at Riley's fall. It's better to laugh than to get all upset and scare him! Too funny on the "mon honey"!!! SarahG: I'm glad life is returning to normal for you. I've also wondered where Beth is. MICHELLE: How great that Evan can now "pee like a man"! CathyG: Noo-noo!!!! LisaB & Max (17 months) & 10 weeks pg email: lisa_lab@hotmail.com Friday, February 25, 2000 at 18:26:40 (EST)) SUE: Too funny on DH and the dishwasher!!!! LisaB Friday, February 25, 2000 at 18:28:09 (EST)) Hello-- just a quickie to let you alll know we made it back safely- had a great time- up to my ears in laundry- I'll try and post tomorrow! Hope everyone is well!! Later!!! Helen&Amanda@18mos(DS@13yrs&DD@12yrs). email: mhim27@hotmail.com Friday, February 25, 2000 at 21:50:16 (EST)) Hi mommies. We had another beautiful day here -73 degrees-set a new record for this date. Jarin wanted to be outside all day long. He loves it so much. I can tell already it's going to be lots of fun trying to get him to come inside this summer. LOL. I am not looking forward to the "normal" weather returning. I had an awful day at school. I have that new girl in my class (I think I told you gals when she came) and she is so absolutely terrible. She is really changing the whole "tone" of my classroom. It really stressed me out today. i worked two hours before i came home and had already had three Mountain Dews before I left. LOL. It even took Jarin 3-4 smiles before I felt better. =) We took Jarin for his 18 month pictures today since he refused to get them at 12 months. We got two really good poses, so when they come in I will scan them and send them to anyone who wants them. **Julianne; Thanks for the card and the pictures. Colton is so cute. I love his blonde hair. Jarin's keeps getting darker. Congrats on getting a new job, and especially on getting a week off in between. LOL. That's great that Colton has so much fun at your ILs and too cute that he was so tired and falling asleep on the couch. I was also LOL at him squawking like a crazed bird. Hope he gets back to normal sleeping really soon. I know how hard it is to not get a full night's rest! **Romaine: Keep us posted on Leanne. I hope everything is ok and the contractions stop and stay stopped. Glad to hear you may get the position you want. I can't imagine working with severe behavior problems all the time - the occasional one in my classroom is more than enough for me. Yay for Saba peeing on the potty and the "pee pee go down" comment is too cute. **Michelle: I'd love to see Riley. "mon honey" - our kids say the most adorable things! =) Yay for Evan standing to pee. I'm sure it was a riot to listen to him tell about his accomplishment. Sorry to hear about the two sore heads. **CathyG: Yikes - sounds like you had a fun weekend-NOT! Oooh, pink-eye, that is so not fun. I had it one year at school and I just kept getting it over and over. I hope you and Alison get over it quickly and it doesn't reoccur. Mid-June seems like forever to me since we are usually out the first week of June. Also, I remember as a kid being out before the end of May. We start in mid-August, so it just seems like a long time. When do you guys start school? "Noo noo", huh? Gee, let me guess - Are Teletubbies big at your house? LOL **Michelle & Maddie: Welcome - sorry I don't have any advice but I'm sure others on here will. **Rebecca: Hope you and your family get over your colds quickly. **Sarahg: Thanks for the pictures. Yes, the nice weather is a very welcome change. Congrats on the new nephew. Jonah was another one of my choices of names when I was prego. Ilove that. Congrats also on weaning Sofie. **Sue: LOL at the dishwasher story! =) **LisaB: Poor Max with strep, cold, and fever.=( I hope he is better soon. LOL at him peeing on your foot. **Helen: Glad you made it back safe. **Off to bed now. See you all later. Patty and Jarin - 18 months in 2 days =( email: tematheny@ctlnet.com Friday, February 25, 2000 at 23:27:04 (EST)) Just a quick post - I have a zillion books on web design to read! lol. I started a family web page yesterday and I think I've had my calling so I went to the bookstore and bought books to learn all about it. I'm so excited. For those of you that asked for pics of Riley - you'll just have to wait until my website is up and running. That way I know you'll all visit! Isn't there someone on here that is a web designer? Or is it a programmer? Let me know - I may have questions. lol that's it for now. Have a great weekend! Michelle, Evan and Riley Saturday, February 26, 2000 at 00:46:57 (EST)) Hi, Romaine here. Just a quickie.... Thank-you for ALL the well-wishes for Leanne. I know that she appreciates it!:) She is home now and is on strct bed-rest until AT LEAST Wed. when she sees a doctor again. My mom will be going there to do stuff so that she WILL stay IN BED! She is so tempted to do little things and she is NOT ALLOWED! If any of you have been on bed rest, she would love to hear how you managed. Her e is a bunch of numbers I can't remember, but I can forward them if you want. She is allowed A LITTLE sitting time. Also, it looks like I got that position! I was out there today and everyone was congratulating me or talking to me like I will be there. The job has not actually closed, but I think that part is just a formality. I am actually excited about it! Everyone said that the principal is super and the kids are great. I already know most of the staff as well. It also is not as long a drive as I thought! It feels good to be a little excited instead of dreading it. Patty- You would NOT beleive the tales that I could tell you! A friend moved to Calgary and told people at her new school about her experiences at our school and they find it hard to beleive! We put up w/ A LOT of garbage there. Gotta get some zzzzzs, the girls don't let me stay in bed much past 7 any more (what happened to 9?) and Dh is on afternoons so he does not get to bed 'til 1 am or so. Thanks for cograts to Saba! She wnted to sit after her bath tonight and said "Poo-poo a down", but only tooted a few times. I guess (after baths anyway) we are slowly walking the road to pottying! Romaine and Saba 23 mos email: rrantry@yahoo.ca Saturday, February 26, 2000 at 03:00:26 (EST)) Hi! Sarah g here. oh- just wanted to let you know I heard from Beth! She's still around, but said internet usage is really being monitored at work still, but she said all's well. ROMAINE, PATTY- Thanks for the pictures! It's so fun to see what all these kiddos look like :) JULIANNE- Thanks so much for the card and picture. Colton is darling! It was such a sweet surprise to get a card from you. MICHELLE- I claim to know something about web design, however I still have a long way to go. :)How are you designing your page? I learned html, but am now finding it's not very efficient typing code out. I haven't taken the time to make a page for my family yet. oh dear! But I hope to soon. I'd be glad to discuss this more with you via email. I think it's great you said it's your calling. I think design is a wonderful mixture of art and science. too cool. PATTY-Sorry to hear that your classroom mood is changing. I spent 3 years tutoring/mentoring kids and doing afterschool day care. Working with kids all day can be so challenging! Hang in there! (I know you will :) HELEN-Glad your back and had a good trip! SUE-Too funny about the dishwasher!!! LISA B-I'm so sorry to hear about Max being so sick. Hope he has a quick recovery and that you and dh get enough rest! Actually when I said I was back to normal I really only meant my boobs!! Can you believe that?? Only a mom would have to talk about that, huh? How embarrasing. Now, when my life becomes normal I suppose I'll go into shock because that would mean all sorts of wonderful things, that I don't want to bore you with. oh well! Take care! CATHY G- I guess in order to be a real web designer I have to master all sorts of complicated graphics programs and finish my degree. There are sort of two routes to go: designer or programmer. Programming sounds pretty intimidating to me... but like I said, long way to go still. Well guys, Isaac's awake!!!! Sarah g, Isaac and Sofia email: gat_men@hotmail.com Saturday, February 26, 2000 at 11:23:34 (EST)) Hi from Lynda. Is been a week since I was able to get here last. I have upped my part-time work from 2 to 3 days for a little and am having trouble fitting everything in. This is a selfish post - I would like some advice on craddle cap - Ella has it rather bad and the doctor has prescribed 1% hydracortisone cream. I am reluctant to use this - but applying oils have not worked in the past. (She has had it mildly since she was about 2 mths old). Recently she has started to scratch at it and I am worried she will get it infected - I would like to clear it once and for all. Any tips ?? Thanks Lynda Lynda & Ella email: ljpjyoung@ozemail.com.au Saturday, February 26, 2000 at 21:46:45 (EST)) Hi Everyone! Darleen here. Well my Dh is home again for the week-end, actually until we move on Tuesday. He booked time off work to help me with Nolan and the move. Thankgoodness. I wasn't sure what I was going to do with Nolan. But....my problem is solved. Well...... last week was a week from hell with Nolan. He was going through a bad stage. He was crying whenever I asked him to do something, told him no, or carried him someplace. He was also hitting in the face. I am nipping that one in the butt quick!! He ate off and on last week. I never forced Nolan to eat. We went to my parents for a couple of days to break up the week, and also a friend of mine was being enduced last Wednesday. She had a healthy baby girl. I'm not sure if I ever mentioned it or not, but her husband left her a month after they were married. He has not given her a reason why, and he doesn't want anything to do with the baby. She called him at his work after she had the baby, and his boss told her he didn't want any part of the baby's life. What a jerk!!!! Some men!! So I went and visited her the night before for moral support, and also her parents and sisters were there for her through the delivery. Nolan is cutting his last 4 teeth unless the backs one aren't all inyet, but I noticed one of the top pointy teeth are coming through. That is why he has been miserable. I guess??????? He has figured out how to climb into his highchair. Today he fell out, he didn't hurt himself, but it also didn't stop him from climbing unfortunatelty. Personals: For those of you that have been having problems sending me stuff I'm not sure what to tell you. We are getting a new e-mail address on Tuesday when we move. The j7smith@ciaccess.com is going to be disconnected on Tuesday, but the j7smith@hotmail.com will remain the same. Thanks everyone for the suggestions on feeding Nolan. He won't eat any desserts except bananas. Oh well I'd rather him not take a liking to desserts. I have resorted back to baby food for desserts. He likes the custard and the rice pudding. Welcome any newcomers. My computer is going to be disconnected as of Sunday so I will chat again after we move. Talk to you all again then. Good night! Darleen & Nolan15mths email: j7smith@hotmail.com j7smith@ciaccess.com Saturday, February 26, 2000 at 22:50:40 (EST)) Hi Darleen again. Lynda and Ella---- Try baby oil in her bath water and wash her hair that way. I always did with Nolan, and he only got it once, and he never seem to get it after that. Hopefully that wil;l help if you haven't alredy tried it! Good - luck! Have a great week-end. Enjoy the nice weather, hopefully it is here to stay. Nolan loves it. No coat today! Darleen & Nolan15mths email: j7smith@hotmail.com j7smith@ciaccess.com Saturday, February 26, 2000 at 22:57:00 (EST)) |