Secular Confessions

[Bridget]

I confess that I feel like I did so much more planning and thinking things through with Savana and with Kai so much is happening by fluke. Like with the potty training, I started because of an unfortunate series of events that left me with only about 12 cloth diapers and I didn't want to buy more. Then last night when we got home from my parents we couldn't find the one and only pacifier we have left for him. It's been a little sad for him to go to bed but he's done it so I suppose it's time to be done with that. Everything's happening so fast!
I confess that today we went to a four year old's birthday party at the YMCA and the only drink option for kids was soda. Root beer and Squirt. I asked for water and the woman working gave me cups and directed me to the children's bathroom. While I was in there one of the ladies asked Savana THREE times if she wanted soda and Savana said no every time. I was so proud of her and really annoyed that the lady kept saying, "Are you sure? Don't you want something to drink?" Finally Savana told the woman she likes to drink water. :wub:
I was really surprised that everyone was letting their kids just have as much soda as they wanted, even very young children who must have been barely two years old, if that.

[daylilies]

Yuck! Josh still hasn't had soda. Heck I still water down his juice by half or more. I wasn't allowed soda for a really long time. Then my mom started letting me split her Pepsi with her. I was probably 8 or 9 by that time.
Josh asked to wear a diaper tonight :( I don't have any more though. I hope this isn't a regression already.

[Cosmosmom]

I'm having a friend issue right now too. :( Back story is we met when we were 15 and she stayed with my family for 3 weeks one summer. It was an exchange thing through school and she is French. We got along GREAT. Next summer when we were 16, I went and stayed with her family. Also GREAT. When we were 19, she came back to my family for like almost 2 months. So much fun was had since we finally could go places being adults. My family even surprised her by driving to CA so we got to go see a ton of states, go to Vegas, SF, Lake Tahoe, Mt Rushmore. Of course we also always went to Chicago because it's not too far from my hometown. In those early years we had to mostly communicate via snailmail and would send packages and such. We would call a few times a year. In our 20's it became a lot more sporadic...not on my part but hers because her boyfriend wasn't really into English or American things and she was always so busy with school.
Ok so now we are 27 and she broke things off with him and suddenly we are chatting a lot again via email because she finally is connected. So she comes to stay with my family again for almost two months (she is a grade school teacher now so summers are off for her). I am now married but at that point only lived like 45 min from my parents so she stayed with them and with DH and I.
She calls my parents mum and dad and I think of her like a sister. My parents think of her as their French daughter.
Ok so after that visit, contact is great again for a while. Than she disappears again for almost a year. Turns out her dad died and they were close. Contact is good again for a few months, she disappears on me. Contact is resumed turns out she is pg (her new guy they are sort of married but not totally like we are here...but he likes English and I did talk to him a tiny bit via webcam at one point). Once again it's good for a few months but I heard nothing from October until Feb.
She just had a little boy like two weeks ago and has sent some pictures to my parents and I. He is really cute.

Ok but the problem is I do love her. But I'm so annoyed with her too. I don't need daily emails but a few times a month would be nice. That way I'm not thinking maybe someone died of swine flu.
I will not cut things off....it's been too many years.

But I'm so jealous of the baby (she got pg the very first month of trying!) and especially annoyed that MY parents are calling him their French grandson and grandbaby. And my mom wants to throw a baby shower with a small group of us that got to know her on the multiple visits here. She is trying to pin me down into a date when I can come down...I now live 5 hours from my parents. And I'm am so not into it and am trying to think of ways to not visit. If she had been good about keeping in contact, I would be more into a baby shower.
I have also told her that we would come out and visit them in Paris but ONLY if she kept in contact.

[missychrissy]

I confess that I love seeing Stash & missychrissy posting again. :)
:wub:

Lydia, you will get more of those moments as they grow up.

Bridget-you're an awesome Mom, and I think every one of us who has had more than one was more lax with each baby we had. Conner has practically raised himself :laugh: Ok, not that bad, but you kwim.

[The10Eels]

I confess I bought the funniest book at work the other day, and it reminds me of all you ladies... It's a mother's confession book!!

[stash]

You know, one child or fifteen, I think it's hard to remember to relax and be present. I'm certainly not minimizing the work of caring for twins or more, but even with one child you have to remind yourself to back up, back off, take a deep breath and enjoy them. I do just that about 20 times a day. :P

[Bridget]

I confess that my dad just sent me an email about my mom that is making me scared. She is going to start a clinical trial cancer treatment through the UW Madison. He pretty much said if this does not work that he's going to quit his job and she is going to quit treatment and they are just going to live until she's done living.
I don't want to lose my mom you guys. I am so not prepared. I need her. My kids need their grandma. They love her so much. I am nowhere near ready for this.

[daylilies]

Hugs Bridget.

[missychrissy]

Oh Bridget ((hugs))

[sunrider]

:hugs:Bridget

[The10Eels]

ooh Bridget! Thats so tough.

[AmeriBrit]

I'm sorry Bridget.

[stephmama]

I'm so sorry, Bridget love. :hugs:

[Janeen]

I confess that my dad just sent me an email about my mom that is making me scared. She is going to start a clinical trial cancer treatment through the UW Madison. He pretty much said if this does not work that he's going to quit his job and she is going to quit treatment and they are just going to live until she's done living.
I don't want to lose my mom you guys. I am so not prepared. I need her. My kids need their grandma. They love her so much. I am nowhere near ready for this.

:hugs:

[Gwenn]

Bridget, I'm so sorry.

Lydia, did you pick Soren? Love it!

[3andMe]

Bridget, I am so sorry. I am hoping the clinical trial helps her.



Lydia, did you pick Soren? Love it!

Mostly. I had to sit dh down last night and remind him (again) that my deadline for a name was 30 weeks. He was not happy, and said if we waited until we were in the hospital we'd be in exactly the same situation, but he'd have more time to look around at names first to make sure he wasn't missing a superb one. I reminded him that he's had 25 weeks to look and hasn't yet, so why would another 9 weeks make a difference? If I didn't know how excited he was, I'd be worried that he's not that into this baby. But I know my dh, and I know he is just a procrastinator, which is why I gave him the 30-week deadline.

So we ran down our short list of favorites, and I started out with pros and cons of each name. He agreed with me, and we weeded out everything except Cole and Soren. And then we both agreed that if we had to pick right then, we'd pick Soren. But he still wants to look around a little bit, and we could change our minds if he finds something spectacular. I think this might actually be one of the hardest parts of having a baby, at least for me.

I have given him two more weeks for the middle name deadline.

And btw, this kind of procrastination is the reason I handle all appointments, ordering, refills, finances, and car maintenance in our house. :eyeroll:

[Gwenn]

I am so disorganized and such a procrastinator. I think I need to hire Lydia to come and tell me what to do when! It's going to be rough with DH gone for a year, although he's just as bad as I am.

[Janeen]

Jimi is definitely the keep things together person in this relationship. :laugh:

[shutterbird]

Bridget, I'm so sorry. Sending good vibes to your mom! :vibes:

Soren is adorable, Lydia. I think it goes really well with Ronin (and Claire! :) )

[Jenny]

Oh Bridget. :hugs: I'm so sorry. I had this discussion with my mom too. She said if her cancer ever came back, she'd not go through the treatments and just live her life until there was no life left. :hugs:



Lydia, love Soren.


I confess that I am a bit disappointed with my measurements taken today. My trainer was very happy, but I'm so used to pulling big numbers that seeing such small numbers for me really has me bummed out. This month I lost only 5.75 pounds, 5.35 inches, and gained one pound of lean muscle. :eyebrow: Compared to last month where I lost like 11 pounds and 9.75 inches. But I have to come to terms that I am nearing my goal and eventually I'll stop losing all together. :silly:

[daylilies]

DH used to keep everything together but now I feel like he doesn't remember anything. It feels like maybe since Josh was born he's just totally overwhelmed. I write things on the calendar and he still doesn't remember. I am a terrible procrastinator and I'm absent minded so it's difficult for both of us to be that way now.

[Bridget]

Lydia! I love the name.
Jenny, I think I can imagine how you must feel. You have been losing so much so consistently. BUT like you said, you are going to start to taper off now that you are nearing your goal. I'm so glad we get to share this journey with you. It's pretty incredible.

[Gwenn]

I'm feeling really irritated tonight. Maybe it's just because I'm frustrated with DH being gone and AF is coming - or not - but I'm just thinking back about something that happened earlier and I'm getting more and more irritated about it.

My mom is retired and sometimes she comes in and volunteers at my school. There is a teacher's aide in one of the classes who I like very much but she just seems a little short with the kids and my mom is always bothered by it. We were talking about it, and how one of the other aides said that after following our kids around all day, she really felt like they were her own children. I mentioned this just because it showed the difference in the two personalities.

My mom said to me, "Well, she has children so she knows what that feels like to become attached to the kids but X doesn't have kids so she isn't like that."

Excuse me?? How insensitive of her to say that to me, knowing how attached I am to my kids and how long I have been TTC. I did point out that I didn't have kids but I felt the same way, and she did backtrack, but she didn't apologize and I really don't think she understood how much that hurt me.

I apologize ... I know things could be a lot worse, but it just got to me tonight.

[daylilies]

Sorry Mandy :( I can see how you'd be hurt by that comment.

[missychrissy]

My mom called me last night & said she needs a biopsy on her breast done next week. I instantly thought of Bridget and Erin and my heart plummeted. :(

[Bridget]

Mandy, I don't think you are being insensitive. I can really understand why that would hurt your feelings. I'm sure that was not your mom's intention but it doesn't make it less hurtful. :hugs:

[Bridget]

My mom called me last night & said she needs a biopsy on her breast done next week. I instantly thought of Bridget and Erin and my heart plummeted. :(
:hugs: I'll be hoping for the best results possible.
Cancer is seriously like a mutating monster that stalks everyone. It feels like I hear of a new case weekly.

[missychrissy]

:(

I'm trying to stay positive, but there's no family history of breast cancer on her side of the family. It should make me feel better, except that breast cancer can be a side effect of the anti-psychotic medications she's taken for the last 20 years. So yeah...I'm a bit worried because of that.

[MammaMia]

I'm so sorry to both of you, Bridget & Chrissy. :hugs:

[MammaMia]

I confess that I'm feeling really discouraged looking for a job at a daycare centre. I haven't seen a suitable position advertised in weeks. I don't know whether I should try to hold out a bit longer, or just get a job wherever until something better comes along.

I just hate the idea of starting a job, knowing I'm not planning to stay. :dunno:

[stephmama]

Oh no, Chrissy! :hugs:

[stash]

My mom called me last night & said she needs a biopsy on her breast done next week. I instantly thought of Bridget and Erin and my heart plummeted. :(

Ugh. Chrissy, think of the other side, ME. I had to have a biopsy done before I was pregnant with O and it turned out to be a benign, fluid-filled cyst. It's equally as possible that that's what's up with your mom. Hang in there.

[stash]

I confess that I've now had two vivid dreams that this baby is a boy. For those of you who know me, I have crazy dreams that are about 100% accurate. Dreamed the sex of both of my boys in the same way, and dreamed that Jasper had a cord issue (which was also unfortunately true). Dreamed that I was miscarrying two out of three times.

So, I'm certain this is a boy and will be surprised if it's not. But I have no BOY NAMES!!!

Lydia, Soren is my FAVORITE (of your names). I love it.

[Janeen]

:(

I'm trying to stay positive, but there's no family history of breast cancer on her side of the family. It should make me feel better, except that breast cancer can be a side effect of the anti-psychotic medications she's taken for the last 20 years. So yeah...I'm a bit worried because of that.

My mommy was diagnosed with breast cancer at around age 60. It shocked us all because like you, there was noooooo family history.

[3andMe]

I used to assist with breast biopsies. It is really scary to think about the possibilities, but about 90% of them were completely and totally benign. Chrissy, I hope your mom is one of the lucky ones!

Stacy, are you hoping for a boy? Or do you have an opinion, besides the naming difficulty (which I know oh so well)? I'm really glad our dreams weren't accurate at predicting babies--dh dreamed that I had a litter of calico kittens when I was pregnant with the twins.

[MammaMia]

Lydia - I dreamed that I gave birth to a cat, and that I was breastfeeding said cat. :shocker:

I repeatedly dreamed about having a boy when I was pregnant with Mia.

[missychrissy]

dh dreamed that I had a litter of calico kittens when I was pregnant with the twins.
:laugh:

[Bridget]

I never had dreams about my delivery or my children during my pregnancies. I had loads of dreams about smoking cigarettes. :laugh: I never craved them during the day but I would always have dreams of myself taking exquisite drags off of a cigarette.:crazy:

[stash]

Lydia, I really don't care either way. On one hand I figure this is my last baby, it would be nice to be mom to a girl, too, in this lifetime. The other hand says I love being mom to a boy and wouldn't two sons be so fun? So no, no opinion really.

I'm convinced that my dreams are biologically-based. My gender dreams always occur right at the same time, when the "boy genes" kick in and start changing the biological structure of the fetus. And with the other dreams, well, there's biological basis for those, too... DH has always been wrong about gender :winks:

[Gwenn]

Stash, that's freaky about your dreams but I could see that hormones might be a factor. Now I'm really curious if you're having a boy.

I confess I'm feeling depressed about DH being gone and I kind of picked a fight with him on the phone tonight. He sent me a very apologetic email now I feel bad about it. It was a rough day, including 20 minutes on the floor with a 9 year old who was wailing like an infant the whole time. Seriously, my co-worker told me later she thought there was a 6 month old baby in my office and came out to hear what was happening. She told me I was an excellent therapist for the way I dealt with it. It felt really good to hear that considering how down I've been.

[The10Eels]

I never had dreams about my delivery or my children during my pregnancies. I had loads of dreams about smoking cigarettes. :laugh: I never craved them during the day but I would always have dreams of myself taking exquisite drags off of a cigarette.:crazy:
lol.. I did too!!

But I did have a dream while pregnant with Audri that she was a boy, and that she looked identical to MrsJS's Eammon

[Bridget]

I confess that I'm feeling really discouraged looking for a job at a daycare centre. I haven't seen a suitable position advertised in weeks. I don't know whether I should try to hold out a bit longer, or just get a job wherever until something better comes along.

I just hate the idea of starting a job, knowing I'm not planning to stay. :dunno:
That is tough. So are you just looking at centers or have you considered being a nanny of sorts?

[MammaMia]

I never had dreams about my delivery or my children during my pregnancies. I had loads of dreams about smoking cigarettes. :laugh: I never craved them during the day but I would always have dreams of myself taking exquisite drags off of a cigarette.:crazy:

That reminds me, I also had tons of smoking dreams while pregnant. Which wouldn't be weird, except for the fact that I was never a smoker. :eyebrow:


Lydia, I really don't care either way. On one hand I figure this is my last baby, it would be nice to be mom to a girl, too, in this lifetime. The other hand says I love being mom to a boy and wouldn't two sons be so fun? So no, no opinion really.

I'm convinced that my dreams are biologically-based. My gender dreams always occur right at the same time, when the "boy genes" kick in and start changing the biological structure of the fetus. And with the other dreams, well, there's biological basis for those, too... DH has always been wrong about gender :winks:

Are you planning find out the sex? (Before birth, that is :laugh:)


Stash, that's freaky about your dreams but I could see that hormones might be a factor. Now I'm really curious if you're having a boy.

I confess I'm feeling depressed about DH being gone and I kind of picked a fight with him on the phone tonight. He sent me a very apologetic email now I feel bad about it. It was a rough day, including 20 minutes on the floor with a 9 year old who was wailing like an infant the whole time. Seriously, my co-worker told me later she thought there was a 6 month old baby in my office and came out to hear what was happening. She told me I was an excellent therapist for the way I dealt with it. It felt really good to hear that considering how down I've been.

Wow, that does sound really stressful. I think it takes a special kind of person to do your job. :hugs:


That is tough. So are you just looking at centers or have you considered being a nanny of sorts?

I'm just looking at daycare centers. There are almost no nanny jobs around.

[MammaMia]

I confess that DH has been giving me the silent treatment since last night, over the silliest little thing. The sad thing is that this isn't really unusual behaviour for him. I'm constantly walking on eggshells around him. Yuck.

[stash]

Yes, we plan on finding out. And Gwenero, wow, good for you for having the patience and compassion to help that little person through whatever would give him such a hard time.

MammaMia, that stinks. My DH is like that intermittently, when he's having troubles with his family. He gets super-sensitive and I feel like I can't say anything without upsetting him. But that's rare. If I had to deal with it constantly, I would go batty. :(

[daylilies]

I confess people need to learn how to use effing 4 way stop signs. If I stop first, I get to go through first. You can't try to roll through and then beep at me because I started going before you even got to your stop sign.

I confess this quiche that a local farm makes is so good I could probably eat a whole one in one day.

[sunrider]

status of a Fb friend . . . .

looks like most of the bulbs i "planted" (threw into the ground hoping for survival of the fittest) are actually popping up this spring!



And I commented "OOOH, Gardening via the Darwin method. I could do that!"

[missychrissy]

status of a Fb friend . . . .


And I commented "OOOH, Gardening via the Darwin method. I could do that!"

:cabbage:awesome!!

I remember the old bulbs my mom planted eventually came up to the top of the ground after many years. Flowers still come up every year there. It's amazing.

[stash]

Bulbs are incredibly forgiving.

[The10Eels]

And I commented "OOOH, Gardening via the Darwin method. I could do that!"
giggle


I confess my sister flys in tomorrow!!

[Bridget]

I confess it is excruciating waiting for my dad to call and tell me what happened at my mom's appt today. They were making a big decision regarding her treatment.

[sunrider]

I confess I must pick Lydia's brain. Oh Lydia!!!!

OK, your pics turn our so great (awesome lighting) cause you said you use a separate flash and bounce it off ceiling, walls, etc. I was browsing flashes at a local store a few weeks ago.

They had 3 flashes that fit in the hot shoe. One only moved up and down, the other two moved both up and down (at any angle from 90 to 180 degrees) and side to side.

Is your flash the hot shoe type that moves one or both directions, or are we talking a separate flash connected by just a cable to the camera?

[MammaMia]

Any news, Bridget??

[Gwenn]

Bridget, stalking this thread for news.

[Bridget]

Thanks ladies. :hugs:
She took her chemo today because as it turns out, the burnt skin may be more cancer so her oncologist feels that by taking too much time off the chemo, it will continue to grow. I can't remember if I said that she has this huge patch of burnt skin where her breast cancer was and they originally thought it was something called radiation recall. Basically, her body was reacting to the chemo by re-burning. So freaky. So she wanted to stop the chemo, as the pain of these burns is almost unbearable. But now they are saying it's actually the cancer coming back. :ohno:
It was a different chemo, so a whole new set of side effects. She is in so much pain right now from her burnt skin that they have her on morphine pills. She is still working which just blows me away. And the clinical trial drug is up in the air now because they want all prior drugs out of her system before she starts that and at this point they are not comfortable letting her go that long without treatment.
So more waiting and hoping. It seems that's all that's left to do.
Thanks for caring. You all are so supportive and I really appreciate it.

[Gwenn]

:hugs:

[Cosmosmom]

Oh Bridget I'm sorry that it wasn't good news and your family is having to go through this. :hugs: Maybe this different chemo will knock it out.

[Janeen]

Thanks ladies. :hugs:
She took her chemo today because as it turns out, the burnt skin may be more cancer so her oncologist feels that by taking too much time off the chemo, it will continue to grow. I can't remember if I said that she has this huge patch of burnt skin where her breast cancer was and they originally thought it was something called radiation recall. Basically, her body was reacting to the chemo by re-burning. So freaky. So she wanted to stop the chemo, as the pain of these burns is almost unbearable. But now they are saying it's actually the cancer coming back. :ohno:
It was a different chemo, so a whole new set of side effects. She is in so much pain right now from her burnt skin that they have her on morphine pills. She is still working which just blows me away. And the clinical trial drug is up in the air now because they want all prior drugs out of her system before she starts that and at this point they are not comfortable letting her go that long without treatment.
So more waiting and hoping. It seems that's all that's left to do.
Thanks for caring. You all are so supportive and I really appreciate it.

Big :hugs: :ohno:

[shutterbird]

I'm so sorry, B. I hope the different chemo helps. :hugs:

[stash]

Oh, Bridget. I'm sorry. :(

[maggie]

Oh no Bridget, I'm so sorry. I was just stopping in for a sec to see what is up, and I'm so sorry to see that news.

It makes me miss you all even more. I hope I have time to come and spend with my friends here soon.

[daylilies]

Hugs Bridget, keep us posted.

[3andMe]

Oh Bridget, I wish you had gotten better news today. I'm really sorry.


--------------------


I confess I must pick Lydia's brain. Oh Lydia!!!!

OK, your pics turn our so great (awesome lighting) cause you said you use a separate flash and bounce it off ceiling, walls, etc. I was browsing flashes at a local store a few weeks ago.

They had 3 flashes that fit in the hot shoe. One only moved up and down, the other two moved both up and down (at any angle from 90 to 180 degrees) and side to side.

Is your flash the hot shoe type that moves one or both directions, or are we talking a separate flash connected by just a cable to the camera?

The flash I have connects to the top of the camera and can be pointed different directions. I used to use dh's, because he has a lot of really great equipment and doesn't use it very often. He has a Canon Speedlite 580EX (http://www.amazon.com/Canon-Speedlite-580EX-Digital-Cameras/dp/B000NP3DJW/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=electronics&qid=1268285899&sr=8-1). That one points in all different directions and can be easily adjusted to flash brighter or dimmer. Some of the pictures I have that are very bright and look like natural afternoon light are from turning the flash up higher and bouncing it off the wall. When dh was in India, he took his flash with him and the weather wasn't good enough to go outside very often, so I got desperate and bought the 270EX model (http://www.amazon.com/Canon-Speedlite-270EX-Digital-Cameras/dp/B001XURPR2/ref=sr_1_fkmr1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1268286069&sr=8-3-fkmr1). It is much smaller, way more portable, but only aims up and down (not side to side) and can't be adjusted for brightness. I've found it still works really well. My regular camera cannot take good pictures indoors or in dim light, and this small, less expensive flash makes everything better. However, I can't get that extra-bright glow with this one, or direct the light to one side or another. Still, it works well enough that I can't see using dh's flash again unless I'm actually trying to do a serious home photo session, with drapes and props and stuff.

--------------------

Maggie, we've been missing you too. Can't wait until you get your thesis done and can come back and hang out more.

[MammaMia]

Oh no Bridget, I'm truly sorry. :( I sending all my positive thoughts your way. :hugs:

[sunrider]

Thank you Lydia.

Bridget, I'm so sorry. I wish I could transport myself to your house just to wrap my arms around you and give a big long hug.

[newmami]

Bridget, I am so sorry about your mom :ohno:. I hope this chemo works
Big big hugs to you :comfort:

(Hope you guys don't mind me butting in!)

[MammaMia]

'Course not Claudia! :hi:

[The10Eels]

'Course not Claudia! :hi:
THIS! We :wub: you claudia! (or at least I do.. lol)

[Gwenn]

I confess I called in sick today. I just didn't want to go.

[shutterbird]

I confess I called in sick today. I just didn't want to go.

Sometimes you just have to play hooky. :) Enjoy your day off!

[Cosmosmom]

I confess I called in sick today. I just didn't want to go.


Everyone does that once in a while.

[Cosmosmom]

I confess...was super tired since I had to get to work at 6:45am for an early meeting (usually it's more like 8-8:30 that I get in!).

So now I confess that I have had a lot of coffee and am tired AND wired.

[stephmama]

I wish I could hug you Bridget. :hugs:

[daylilies]

Steph, I love your picture!
I confess I went back to the dentist for the first time in a couple years. I found out I have a cavity--my first ever, which is pretty amazing since I have avoided the dentist like the plague since becoming an adult. What is it like, getting a filling?
Hooray for not-sick days, Mandy! LOL

[stephmama]

Thanks. :wub:


I haven't been to the dentist since 2004. :laugh: Oops.

[MammaMia]

You & Madelyn are adorable Steph!! :)

[sunrider]

I confess I am quite sad now.
Got at email from my mother. She thinks gram has had another stroke. I don't know what's going to happen. Mother can't keep trying to lift her and now gram helps even less. Mother has worsening scoliosis, and needs a knee replacement. When gram falls, she has to call the local fire dept to come the house to help get her back into her wheelchair or the bed.

I'm 250 miles from them and can't do a dam ned thing to help. :teardp:

[missychrissy]

:( (((hugs))) Bridget.



I haven't been to the dentist since I was pregnant with Conner (2006). I HATE missing work for stuff like that. I have sick time and my boss is cool, but it's a remnant from being raised by a factory worker who lost pay if he missed work. I've gotten better about actually going to work sick though...I hardly ever do that any more.

[missychrissy]

I confess I am quite sad now.
Got at email from my mother. She thinks gram has had another stroke. I don't know what's going to happen. Mother can't keep trying to lift her and now gram helps even less. Mother has worsening scoliosis, and needs a knee replacement. When gram falls, she has to call the local fire dept to come the house to help get her back into her wheelchair or the bed.

I'm 250 miles from them and can't do a dam ned thing to help. :teardp:

:hugs:Can she get a home health aide to help?

[sunrider]

:hugs:Can she get a home health aide to help?

Mother works full time and has hired 2 "nurses" to care for gram while she's at work (they aren't actually nurses, but are a nice lesbian couple from a nearby Methodist church). Mother would not be able to afford professional care and both Medicare and AARP have cut off any sort of nursing home or rehab therapy care. That happened when gram was diagnosed with some sort of cognitive association disorder. Since that first stroke, she can no longer remember how to do anything in a series.

Example: She can tell you 6 x 7 = 42, or 7 x 8 = 56. But if you ask her to say her times tables by 7's, she can't. So she can't remember the steps to transition from wheelchair to walker to go to the bathroom. Feet under knees, put left hand on walker handle, put right hand on walker handle, lean forward and rock, push up to standing. She has to be reminded of the steps EVERY TIME, frequently forgetting to visually check her left hand and foot positions since feeling and control are limited.

I hate AARP. They suck the money out of my parent's accounts and don't do jack crap. They've cut off nursing care and therapy just like Medicare, and don't help at all with the hundreds of dollars of prescriptions gram takes daily.

[missychrissy]

That makes me so angry on your behalf. Something needs to be done about this state of health care. I'm so sorry.

[newmami]

I am so sorry Krista :hugs:

[stephmama]

:(

[Bridget]

Thank you Lydia.

Bridget, I'm so sorry. I wish I could transport myself to your house just to wrap my arms around you and give a big long hug.
Well, right back at you.
Sorry about your gram. :hugs:

[daylilies]

Sorry Krista :(

[The10Eels]

(hugs) for Krista and Bridget!!


I confess -- I love Audrianna! lol.. She was sitting on my moms bed with her while I was in the bathroom shaving my legs...

I heard my mom start singing "If you're happy and you know it" except the verse that I sing to Audri as "Shout Hooray" my mom sings "Shout Amen"...

As soon as my mom started singing that part Audri started making noises like from the Excorsist,

It was hilarious!

[girlwonder]

Just popping in to say that I'm so sorry Bridget and Krista. These are such difficult things that you are dealing with. :hugs:

[shutterbird]

I'm so sorry, Krista. Big hugs... :hugs:

Ashley, I laughed out loud at your post. Haha!

[3andMe]

:hugs: Krista.

I attempted to take the twins to their first movie in a theater today, at the Baby Brigade matinee of Alice in Wonderland with Demigraf and her son. It worked for a little over an hour, but we'd already been in the car for almost two hours, and the twins started running around. I was willing to let them wander through the mostly empty aisles, but when DS headed up toward one exit door and DD went down the stairs toward another, I had to scoop them up and leave.

It was a nice day, though, so we went to two different parks and ran some errands.

I confess our washing machine is broken, and rather than spend the time in a laundromat, we've been taking our clothes to a laundry service that charges by the pound for wash and dry. It's actually not that much more expensive than doing it ourselves would be. Our new washing machine is on backorder, and I only have four pairs of underwear and three work outfits that fit my burgeoning shape.

[The10Eels]

Oh Lydia! I love the new pics!! Clair is just beautiful, and Ronin's little grin! I can't wait to see pics of Soren... You and your DH make beautiful children!

[3andMe]

Thank you! You should see the pouty face Ronin I didn't put in. It is so funny. Our second playground today was right next to some train tracks, and they were doing a major construction project on the tracks, so Ro got to see TRAINS AND CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT going back and forth on the tracks the whole time we were there. Every time one went behind a tree, he pouted, and every time a new one came by, he grinned.

Ah, what the heck:

http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n70/lydchapman/IMG_8595-1.jpg

I'm getting really excited now about meeting little Soren, too. I can't wait to see what he's like.

[MammaMia]

I love the new pics Lydia! There's something about Claire that reminds me of Mia. None of their individual features are similar though...maybe it's something in the face shape?

Which reminds me, it's been a billion years since I posted any pics.

[MammaMia]

I confess I love the new Lady Gaga & Beyonce video. So outrageous. :laugh:

[missychrissy]

(hugs) for Krista and Bridget!!


I confess -- I love Audrianna! lol.. She was sitting on my moms bed with her while I was in the bathroom shaving my legs...

I heard my mom start singing "If you're happy and you know it" except the verse that I sing to Audri as "Shout Hooray" my mom sings "Shout Amen"...

As soon as my mom started singing that part Audri started making noises like from the Excorsist,

It was hilarious!

lmao! What a hoot!!


I confess I love the new Lady Gaga & Beyonce video. So outrageous. :laugh:

I haven't seen the new video, but I love them both!!

[daylilies]

I confess I love the new Lady Gaga & Beyonce video. So outrageous. :laugh:

Ooh, I must go see!

[MammaMia]

I confess that all this baking is making me chubby. I need to get a less fattening hobby.

[Bridget]

I confess I love the new Lady Gaga & Beyonce video. So outrageous. :laugh:
I have to see it! I love them both too.

Lydia - The twins look so grown up in those pictures. I just love the pouting one.

[Jenny]

Oh Bridget :hugs: I'm so sorry. I hope this new chemo does the trick. My mama has horrible burns from her radiation.


Lydia, that shirt looks so great on Claire! :wub: And the pouty pic of Ro is awesome!



I can't believe I go back to work on Monday. BooHiss.

[stephmama]

Lydia makes beautiful babies.


Sarah, I love baking but don't because I'll eat all of it. I guess it's a good thing I'll be working in a bakery soon. :laugh:

[sunrider]

Thank you all . . . .
I sent my mother an email at work yesterday that simply said "I love you Mother".
She thanked me and said she really just needed that.

Hmmm, maybe I'll make that a daily habit.



I'm getting really excited now about meeting little Soren, too. I can't wait to see what he's like.

Hmmm, has a decision been made??? :eyebrow:

[MammaMia]

Lydia makes beautiful babies.


Sarah, I love baking but don't because I'll eat all of it. I guess it's a good thing I'll be working in a bakery soon. :laugh:

I don't even want to know what would happen if I worked in a bakery.

[stephmama]

I don't even want to know what would happen if I worked in a bakery.


Maybe you should move to LA and find out. Yes!

[Cosmosmom]

I confess I love the new Lady Gaga & Beyonce video. So outrageous. :laugh:

I haven't seen it but love the song. My sister is a HUGE fan (she is definitely in the Monster club...has seen her twice in Chicago and is planning to go to NYC when the tour dates are announced...she even got my dad into it and now he is a big fan) and was waiting for the video.

[daylilies]

I confess I love the new Lady Gaga & Beyonce video. So outrageous. :laugh:

Well, that was unlike anything I was expecting to see. LOL

[MammaMia]

Well, that was unlike anything I was expecting to see. LOL

:laugh:

It's the sequel to the "paparazzi" video.

Again with the baking - I confess that I've eaten literally nothing but oatmeal cookies all day long. It doesn't help that there's no other food in the house.

[3andMe]

I made two casseroles this morning (one for tomorrow, one to freeze for when the new baby is here) and already have dinner for tonight in the slow cooker. I love cooking, but not baking. I think baking is annoying. Even when I like the end result, I'm a little conflicted about having an entire recipe's worth of cookies or cakes or pies sitting here, ready to be eaten by just me and dh and the twins.

[stephmama]

Has anyone heard from Agatha(WillowSpy)? I wonder if she's had the baby?

[Bridget]

I confess that my dad just called and they are admitting my mom to the hospital. The pain is too much for her to bear.
How do you ever know if it's a bump in the road or the beginning of the end?

[stephmama]

I confess that my dad just called and they are admitting my mom to the hospital. The pain is too much for her to bear.
How do you ever know if it's a bump in the road or the beginning of the end?


:( I wish I knew.

[MammaMia]

I confess that my dad just called and they are admitting my mom to the hospital. The pain is too much for her to bear.
How do you ever know if it's a bump in the road or the beginning of the end?

A million hugs Bridget. :hugs:

[daylilies]

:laugh:

It's the sequel to the "paparazzi" video.



I sort of got the connection--I have to watch it again though. For the first 3 minutes I was like "is this the video? is the music going to start?" lol



I made two casseroles this morning (one for tomorrow, one to freeze for when the new baby is here) and already have dinner for tonight in the slow cooker. I love cooking, but not baking. I think baking is annoying. Even when I like the end result, I'm a little conflicted about having an entire recipe's worth of cookies or cakes or pies sitting here, ready to be eaten by just me and dh and the twins.

I don't like baking either! I think I've said this before. It's too exact for me.


I confess that my dad just called and they are admitting my mom to the hospital. The pain is too much for her to bear.
How do you ever know if it's a bump in the road or the beginning of the end?

I don't know Bridget. :hugs:

[stash]

Freeze them.

[3andMe]

I confess that my dad just called and they are admitting my mom to the hospital. The pain is too much for her to bear.
How do you ever know if it's a bump in the road or the beginning of the end?

I think it's hard to tell until the end is really, really close. I hope your mother gets some relief from her pain, and maybe a specialist or pain team can help with getting her on a regimen that will keep her pain-free in the comfort of her own home. It is no fun being in a hospital.

[AmeriBrit]

I just had a debate with my mother over the phone about VBAC's. She's old school and is all "once you have a c-section, you have to have another." "Everyone" she has spoken to has told her the same. LOL. I told her she's not the one having a baby right now and is doing research. She's freaking out that I'm going to try for a natural birth.

[3andMe]

Good for you for looking into VBACking! I have been daydreaming about VBA2C, but I don't think I will.

Stacy, not that I didn't like your previous sig. picture, but I'm so happy to see a new one! I like to see him growing up.

[stash]

Thanks, Lydia. I happen to like this one because his hair's a total mess and he's wearing overalls that are two sizes too small (he insisted). :P

[daylilies]

LOL! Josh's hair looks worse than that most of the time. I can't seem to get it under control.

[3andMe]

He looks totally impish. His expression tells me I would be worried about what he's going to do with those crayons.

[stephmama]

Thanks, Lydia. I happen to like this one because his hair's a total mess and he's wearing overalls that are two sizes too small (he insisted). :P


He's sooooo cute! :wub:

[Bridget]

Stacy, I am thrilled to see a recent picture of O. He is beautiful!

[girlwonder]

Interesting Fresh Air today - a guy who studied inconsistencies in the bible. He was a Christian who became agnostic when he couldn't reconcile the idea of an all-powerful God while there was still such suffering in the world. I only caught the last bit, but will def. get it as a podcast.

Bridget - :hugs: I'm sorry. I am glad that your mom is getting some help with her pain.

[girlwonder]

I love baking. Love love love it. I thought about going to pastry school for about a minute and a half until I realized I would be getting up at 2 a.m. for the rest of my life. :laugh:

I would bet that if you worked in a bakery all the time, you wouldn't really see it as yummy food to eat anymore - it would just be units. Or maybe not :bellyrubs::P

[Jenny]

Oh Bridget :hugs:I am so sorry. I hope she finds some relief from the pain. :hugs:




Stacy, the new pic is awesome. He totally looks like an imp. Love it. :wub:

[stash]

Thanks guys, I'll have to find some more. He's such a super dude. He's been learning like a sponge lately and we've been having so much fun together.

[stephmama]

Bridget! Savana and Kai look exactly alike. :wub:

[daylilies]

Bridget! Savana and Kai look exactly alike. :wub:

Wow, they really do! They are so cute.

[MammaMia]

Aaaah, adorable siggy overload! :wub:

[3andMe]

Aaaah, adorable siggy overload! :wub:

Totally! I love the new pictures, Bridget! And Stephmama, I didn't comment earlier but I love your new picture, too!

[missychrissy]

Bridget-I wish I could do more than say "oh Bridget-((hugs))" but (((hugs))) nonetheless. I think about you countless times a day. I do hope your mom has some relief.

[missychrissy]

I just had a debate with my mother over the phone about VBAC's. She's old school and is all "once you have a c-section, you have to have another." "Everyone" she has spoken to has told her the same. LOL. I told her she's not the one having a baby right now and is doing research. She's freaking out that I'm going to try for a natural birth.

I had 2 c-sections followed by 2 vbacs. It can be done successfully!!! I'm sure you know that, but I'm just one more statistic you can use as an argument!! Bobbie and Jessica were both born via c-section (Jessica simply because I chickened out and screamed for a c-section knowing full well they'd give it to me. I'm still mad they did!) and then Sydney and Conner were natural.

[MammaMia]

I confess that yesterday was 5 years since my father died. I'm still heartbroken about it. :(

[daylilies]

I confess that yesterday was 5 years since my father died. I'm still heartbroken about it. :(

:hugs:

[Bridget]

I confess that yesterday was 5 years since my father died. I'm still heartbroken about it. :(
:hugs: I cannot imagine life without my dad.

[The10Eels]

I had 2 c-sections followed by 2 vbacs. It can be done successfully!!! I'm sure you know that, but I'm just one more statistic you can use as an argument!! Bobbie and Jessica were both born via c-section (Jessica simply because I chickened out and screamed for a c-section knowing full well they'd give it to me. I'm still mad they did!) and then Sydney and Conner were natural.
A friend of my moms was telling us the other day that her friend is pregnant with twins (her first pregnancy) and they are scheduling a c-section by her request "Because she's a wuss" I guess they promised her this section before she even got pregnant....

[addysonreese]

Bridget, I love your new siggy pic!!

Goodness, it is so hard to keep up with this chat if I miss it for a day or two! :)

I confess that I just finished my FAFSA and am almost done with my application to college! I decided on a B.A. in English while completing my pre-medical studies. I am so so excited!

[addysonreese]

A friend of my moms was telling us the other day that her friend is pregnant with twins (her first pregnancy) and they are scheduling a c-section by her request "Because she's a wuss" I guess they promised her this section before she even got pregnant....

Wow. That's a bit sad. I am all for women deciding what birth they want - to each his own and all that - but .. I just can't describe what I feel, lol. A c-section is harder to recover from than a vaginal birth. I know pain isn't for everyone, but I myself would never ASK for a c-section, or demand I have one before I even got pregnant. Just IMO.

[Gwenn]

Good for you for getting your FAFSA done and good for you for being excited about school. I want to warn you that my cousin got a B.A. in Spanish and was turned down for med school because she didn't have enough of a focus on medicine/science in her undergraduate work. I wouldn't want that to happen to you.

[girlwonder]

This is fun. I want one:
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=42485540

[addysonreese]

Good for you for getting your FAFSA done and good for you for being excited about school. I want to warn you that my cousin got a B.A. in Spanish and was turned down for med school because she didn't have enough of a focus on medicine/science in her undergraduate work. I wouldn't want that to happen to you.

Hmm. I read in my med school book that medical schools don't care what your major is. Maybe her science GPA wasn't up to snuff or she didn't finish all of her pre-med requirements? I dunno. I'll be working with a pre-med advisor and everything to make sure all my classes are acceptable for applying to medical school. :) But thank you for the warning; I'll be making sure to ask a lot of questions and make sure I'm taking everything I need.

[addysonreese]

This is fun. I want one:
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=42485540

I like that! :laugh:

[Gwenn]

Hmm. I read in my med school book that medical schools don't care what your major is. Maybe her science GPA wasn't up to snuff or she didn't finish all of her pre-med requirements? I dunno. I'll be working with a pre-med advisor and everything to make sure all my classes are acceptable for applying to medical school. :) But thank you for the warning; I'll be making sure to ask a lot of questions and make sure I'm taking everything I need.

Sounds like you're thinking everything through. I think she may have decided to apply to med school later after switching her major around a few times and she may not have had all the prereqs done. If you're working closely with the pre-med advisor and asking lots of questions I'm sure you'll be fine. In her case, she ended up getting a master's in anatomy/physiology and re-applied.

[addysonreese]

Sounds like you're thinking everything through. I think she may have decided to apply to med school later after switching her major around a few times and she may not have had all the prereqs done. If you're working closely with the pre-med advisor and asking lots of questions I'm sure you'll be fine. In her case, she ended up getting a master's in anatomy/physiology and re-applied.

Oh, that's very nice! I thought about becoming a science major.. but although I am smart and study a lot, science doesn't come naturally to me as something I can grasp quickly, so I figured if I did a major that wasn't science oriented, I could focus on my non-science GPA and the pre-med GPA separate. If that makes sense.

Do you know what specialty your cousin decided on after medical school? And thank you for your input on this! I definitely want to make sure I don't miss anything.

[missychrissy]

A friend of my moms was telling us the other day that her friend is pregnant with twins (her first pregnancy) and they are scheduling a c-section by her request "Because she's a wuss" I guess they promised her this section before she even got pregnant....

That's ridiculous. I can sorta understand the reasoning behind encouraging a 2nd c-section if you've already had one, but to just allow someone to do it because they want to? No friggin way.

I do wish my Dr would have tried to talk me through Jessica's delivery though. I was 18 or 19, Rich & I weren't together and I didn't have any lamaze or clue about what was going on. I was vomiting with each contraction, which I later learned was a sign I was getting close...but I really regret that it just took me crying for a c-section to get one. It should not be that simple, especially when the woman is in the midst of labor and starting to lose it. I could have been talked through it I think. I didn't even know what a doula was at the time, and my dr had me terrified of midwives so I never even consulted one.

Live and learn. :D At least I was able to have two vbacs after that. I'm very proud of myself for getting the facts and not being afraid to stand up for my rights. I really had to fight to have Conner (my 2nd vbac) naturally. The dr was against it, but I told him I was having Conner naturally, either at his hospital or somewhere else, I didn't care. I even told him if he scheduled a c-section for me I wouldn't show up for it.

That really shows how different I was as a person between 19 and 31. At this stage of my life, I don't do a single thing I don't wanna do.

[shutterbird]

I have to agree with all of the new siggys. Adorable!

[missychrissy]

I admit I do feel a slight bit hypocritical in my vbac stance...I really fought hard to have Conner naturally...yet, I'm currently scheduled to have breast augmentation 4/26. I realize having a BA is elective and totally unnecessary, but at the same time if I could just grunt really hard and push to have big boobs, I'd just do that.

I read what people said about Cass having a boob job, and I've thought long and hard about my own motivation for wanting breast augmentation. I can't really say I lack any self esteem...I'm actually really proud of my breasts. They've fed 4 children and still don't sag. They're perky and symmetrical and rather nice to look at...but I still want larger ones. I've looked at many before/after breast augmentation procedure pictures, and my own plastic surgeon exclaimed "Are you sure you want them done?" when he saw them...and yes, I do. I why? I don't know..I won't feel better about myself. I know that. I don't need them for any reason...I just want them & can afford it without anyone in this household going without...so...why not?

I've watched "Girls Next Door" & I do admire Playboy...but I didn't grow up seeing that. It's something I saw as an adult and thought..."that's beautiful!" I know I'm intelligent. I got my job with my smarts alone...I happen to think larger, round breasts are beautiful and I want them. So, I'm getting them. It's really as simple as that. I don't think they'll make me any better than I am today...it's really not about self esteem at all. I don't really know how to put it into words....

[The10Eels]

Chrissy - I have never thought to compare something like a breast augmentation and a c-section.....

[missychrissy]

Well, I fought really hard to have Conner naturally and one of the arguments I used with the Dr was that a c-section was unnecessary surgery. :D It's not lost on me how a BA would be unnecessary surgery as well, but I'm willing to do it.

[MammaMia]

Well, I fought really hard to have Conner naturally and one of the arguments I used with the Dr was that a c-section was unnecessary surgery. :D It's not lost on me how a BA would be unnecessary surgery as well, but I'm willing to do it.

Well, technically it is necessary if you want bigger boobs. :laugh:

[stephmama]

Well, technically it is necessary if you want bigger boobs. :laugh:


I agree with this.


Boobies!

[daylilies]

Now I am thinking about breast surgery. Bigger boobs would make my stomach look smaller, right?

[stephmama]

I would kill for smaller boobs.

[daylilies]

Too bad we can't trade. LOL

[stephmama]

You wouldn't want mine, though. They're droopy and sad these days. :laugh:

[3andMe]

Well, technically it is necessary if you want bigger boobs. :laugh:

Darn it, does that mean all those chest exercises while repeating "I must, I must, I must increase my bust" won't work?

[rhiannasmoms43]

Beware all bigger booby lovers...a B cup at 20 may be small, but a B cup at 40 looks more like a big C...(JME)
I don't know why- the bra is the same size...it just is...

Hello:hi:
...and Chrissy...do I dare ask you to post pics after? LMAO

[missychrissy]

You can ask Julie. :D lol

[missychrissy]

I confess I need to stay off the internet when I'm drinking.

[The10Eels]

ok Chrissy... I thought about this all morning and here is my take --

The c-section thing -- It is an elective surgery, for a process that our bodies were designed to do naturally. Plus you are not only putting yourself at risk, but also the baby you are carrying...

The boobs - It's just you, and its to enhance what your body HAD naturally...


That probably makes no sense.. but I still see them differently.. Even if they are both elective

[MammaMia]

I agree, Ashley.

I meant to say before, that's totally exciting Chrissy! What cup size are you aiming for? You have to post before & after pics. :)

[MammaMia]

On another topic, I need more of you secular ladies on my facebook!

[girlwonder]

:hugs: My father died 12 years ago and I still get choked up about him. It's okay, though. It feels kind of like a "visit" from him.


I confess that yesterday was 5 years since my father died. I'm still heartbroken about it. :(

[girlwonder]

I would kill for smaller boobs.

Mine are so big they have tidal action! :laugh: Before getting pg, I was a 34 C (a bit too big). After pg, as of last year, I was a 34 FFF. Awful! They get in the way and I always feel like I look so sloppy, especially in a sleeveless outfit. Like I should be the old lady in the background on "Cops".

[3andMe]

Mine are so big they have tidal action! :laugh:

Do they get perkier when the moon is full?

I really like mine the way they are now, while pregnant. I can tell you, though, they do NOT make my waistline look smaller. :laugh:

[MammaMia]

:hugs: My father died 12 years ago and I still get choked up about him. It's okay, though. It feels kind of like a "visit" from him.

Thanks, and hugs to you too. Even years later, when the grief hits, it's overwhelming.


Mine are so big they have tidal action! :laugh: Before getting pg, I was a 34 C (a bit too big). After pg, as of last year, I was a 34 FFF. Awful! They get in the way and I always feel like I look so sloppy, especially in a sleeveless outfit. Like I should be the old lady in the background on "Cops".

Mine have been all over the place - D cup before pregnancy, size F-ing ginormous in the early days of breastfeeding (DH bought me an E-cup bra and it was too small!). Now I'm finally shrinking back to a C. I think they'll be even smaller once I've weaned.

[Cosmosmom]

Well, I fought really hard to have Conner naturally and one of the arguments I used with the Dr was that a c-section was unnecessary surgery. :D It's not lost on me how a BA would be unnecessary surgery as well, but I'm willing to do it.

Eh doesn't matter. Nothing wrong with contrary opinions. I have a number of them myself. :)

And I would say that a c-section is a much more major surgery than a BA. Anytime you cut through all that muscle and have that huge a scar...that is what makes it so much more of a major surgery. I was able to have just five tiny incisions for the gastric bypass...had they done it open, recovery would have been so much worse just because of the size of the incision and the muscles being cut through.

Do you have to stay overnight?

As for me, I'm not into plastic surgery and not really big on elective surgery. yet I was more than willing to do the gastric bypass...and while that really benefited my health it was still a major elective surgery.

I really think that anyone should just do whatever will make them happen and as long as it doesn't hurt anyone else, it's not their business.

Just don't go too big...I'm not perky but have DD's and they are NOT light or easy on the back.

[Cosmosmom]

I confess I need to stay off the internet when I'm drinking.

Umm yes. I was told no drunk APAing a few months ago! LOL

[Cosmosmom]

I confess....I'm SOOO excited to have been able to have my windows open today and while still some snow on the ground, it's quickly going away. We hit the first 60 degree day of the year!

[Janeen]

Umm yes. I was told no drunk APAing a few months ago! LOL

And you've done sooooo well. :winks: :lol:

[Cosmosmom]

I also confess that DH and I were looking to watching something and I picked a movie on Demand....Whatever Works. And we both REALLY liked it. Probably one of the more interesting movies we have seen in a while.

[Cosmosmom]

And you've done sooooo well. :winks: :lol:

Ha, yeah I realized that I was just drinking too much and not only is it expensive but I was having a couple every night....and kept needing more to get buzzed. Not good for weight, not good for money and not good for me on APA!
So for the most part I'm not keeping alcohol in the house anymore. If out to eat, i might get something there since DH drives (he's NEVER been buzzed or drunk...he likes Mikes and I don't). I like brandy, rum and wine.

Good news is grocery trips are a bit cheaper and I'm down 4.6 pounds this past week (have been doing a lot more veggies and some exercise a few times a week...I'm a couch potato so doing 10-20 minutes is about it for now!).

[Janeen]

Ha, yeah I realized that I was just drinking too much and not only is it expensive but I was having a couple every night....and kept needing more to get buzzed. Not good for weight, not good for money and not good for me on APA!
So for the most part I'm not keeping alcohol in the house anymore. If out to eat, i might get something there since DH drives (he's NEVER been buzzed or drunk...he likes Mikes and I don't). I like brandy, rum and wine.

Good news is grocery trips are a bit cheaper and I'm down 4.6 pounds this past week (have been doing a lot more veggies and some exercise a few times a week...I'm a couch potato so doing 10-20 minutes is about it for now!).

When it comes to me and Jimi drinking, it's SUPER expensive.

I'm talking go to the bar and drop $200-$300 in one night expensive.

I even started out at home sometimes but then I get bored and end up at the bar anyway lol

[Cosmosmom]

When it comes to me and Jimi drinking, it's SUPER expensive.

I'm talking go to the bar and drop $200-$300 in one night expensive.

I even started out at home sometimes but then I get bored and end up at the bar anyway lol

OMG! I have only really drank at a bar once in my life. I started dating DH when I was only 19 and he doesn't really drink because his dad is an alcoholic...DH really only does Mikes or maybe like one mixed drink at home (the fruity girly kinds LOL) or one glass of wine at home.

I thought it was bad to spend $20-40 a week at the grocery store......

We really are kind of boring like that...not much partying going on and not much drinking (except for my being bad the second half of 2009!). maybe that is why people think that we are mormon? LOL

[Janeen]

OMG! I have only really drank at a bar once in my life. I started dating DH when I was only 19 and he doesn't really drink because his dad is an alcoholic...DH really only does Mikes or maybe like one mixed drink at home (the fruity girly kinds LOL) or one glass of wine at home.

I thought it was bad to spend $20-40 a week at the grocery store......

We really are kind of boring like that...not much partying going on and not much drinking (except for my being bad the second half of 2009!). maybe that is why people think that we are mormon? LOL

I :heart: going to the bar. LOL, I like hanging out with people and meeting new ones while drinking. Even if I am having a party at my house, or even someone elses, before too long we're all like "Yep, it's karaoke time!" Every once in a while it was a dance club but usually it was the karaoke bar. I'm definitely not the stay at home and drink type. :laugh:

It's all about the Coors Light and Tuacabombs for me.

[rhiannasmoms43]

Mine are so big they have tidal action! :laugh:
Too Funny!


I really like mine the way they are now, while pregnant. I can tell you, though, they do NOT make my waistline look smaller. :laugh:

:laugh:


I confess I need to stay off the internet when I'm drinking.
Don't you dare make a silly vow like that on my account! I am still laughin today LOLOL

[MammaMia]

I confess I need to stay off the internet when I'm drinking.

Wait, what did you do? :eyebrow:

[MammaMia]

I :heart: going to the bar. LOL, I like hanging out with people and meeting new ones while drinking. Even if I am having a party at my house, or even someone elses, before too long we're all like "Yep, it's karaoke time!" Every once in a while it was a dance club but usually it was the karaoke bar. I'm definitely not the stay at home and drink type. :laugh:

It's all about the Coors Light and Tuacabombs for me.

I love going to the bar too, though I haven't really been since before I got pregnant with Mia.

I'm such a cheap date now. I had 2 glasses of wine over 3-4 hours the other night, and I was so drunk that I was slurring. :shame:

[Bridget]

I used to go out to the bars almost every night. I used to drink a lot. Now, even when I go out, I just have a couple. I have no desire to get drunk anymore. Being hungover is not worth it. But I did have a lot of fun going out back in the day. I don't regret it but I do know I did it out of boredom and lack of fullmillment. I have neither of those any longer.:winks:
My mom has been in the hospital all weekend. Yesterday I couldn't even go see her because my dad kept calling and telling me to wait because she was sleeping and then it got to be evening and he said the dr's had to run some tests and such and it just wouldn't be a good time to come. We are hoping they can figure out her meds so she can home today.
I confess that lately I feel tired all the time. I go to bed so early, like 9-10 and I still don't feel rested. I can drink coffee and still want nothing but to fall asleep. This is so unlike me.

[MammaMia]

I was just about to ask about your mom, Bridget. I hope she can come home today, and I hope she's feeling better. :hugs:

[missychrissy]

I agree, Ashley.

I meant to say before, that's totally exciting Chrissy! What cup size are you aiming for? You have to post before & after pics. :)

Large C, small D. I'm 5'8", so I should be able to carry D's without looking ridiculous.


On another topic, I need more of you secular ladies on my facebook!

Are we friends on Facebook? Sometimes I don't match real names with APA names very well.


When it comes to me and Jimi drinking, it's SUPER expensive.

I'm talking go to the bar and drop $200-$300 in one night expensive.

I even started out at home sometimes but then I get bored and end up at the bar anyway lol

That's insane. The last time I went out, I brought 60 & came home with 40. It helped that 4-5 other people bought me drinks though.


I used to go out to the bars almost every night. I used to drink a lot. Now, even when I go out, I just have a couple. I have no desire to get drunk anymore. Being hungover is not worth it. But I did have a lot of fun going out back in the day. I don't regret it but I do know I did it out of boredom and lack of fullmillment. I have neither of those any longer.:winks:
My mom has been in the hospital all weekend. Yesterday I couldn't even go see her because my dad kept calling and telling me to wait because she was sleeping and then it got to be evening and he said the dr's had to run some tests and such and it just wouldn't be a good time to come. We are hoping they can figure out her meds so she can home today.
I confess that lately I feel tired all the time. I go to bed so early, like 9-10 and I still don't feel rested. I can drink coffee and still want nothing but to fall asleep. This is so unlike me.
:( Oh Bridget. I'm sure it's natural to feel tired all the time now. You're under so much stress. I hope your mom can come home today. :(

[sunrider]

On another topic, I need more of you secular ladies on my facebook!

I confess I have PM'd you my Fb contact info.

[Cosmosmom]

I :heart: going to the bar. LOL, I like hanging out with people and meeting new ones while drinking. Even if I am having a party at my house, or even someone elses, before too long we're all like "Yep, it's karaoke time!" Every once in a while it was a dance club but usually it was the karaoke bar. I'm definitely not the stay at home and drink type. :laugh:

It's all about the Coors Light and Tuacabombs for me.

Beer is just icky and not sure what a tuacabomb is. :) It was really fun when I was more newly post-op and literally a few sips of wine would have me buzzed and stumbling around. (they bypassed the first 5 feet of small intestine so alcohol and sugar tends to hit me much faster). Sadly at this point my tolerance is up....but maybe without drinking daily it will come back down. I used to be a VERY cheap date. LOL

Going to a bar sounds like fun (I think that I'm always paranoid about how to get home or getting sick in public)...and I would have to be drunk to do karaoke in front of anyone other than family (Love to sing but totally suck...why I was in orchestra and not choir LOL). I LOVE playing Rock Band with my sister!

Can you believe that we have been living in our town for almost 3.5 years now and I know a few people I work with but not really anyone else....and I don't hang out with them after work.
and my BFF lives in Minneapolis which is 90-120 minutes away and we just don't get out there often.

[MammaMia]

I confess I have a job interview tomorrow and I'm panicking a bit. I hate job interviews where I have to speak Icelandic. Arrgh!!! Someone calm me down!!

[stephmama]

Good luck Sarah!!!

[missychrissy]

Good luck on your interview!! I'm sure you'll do just fine.

[The10Eels]

I confess we went to Salt Lake yesterday to take my sister back to the airport. It was a LONG day (up at 5:15am - or 4:15 really... - then we got home at 2am) I fell asleep on the drive home, right after Park City, and woke up when we got home.... My mom said "Well, I only fell asleep 3 times.. Good thing there are rumble strips"

I confess that scares me that that didn't wake me up... Especially since the girls were in the truck with us.


Oh... and We had Olive Garden. It was sooooooo yummy!!!

[missychrissy]

:shocker: Glad y'all made it home ok!!

[MammaMia]

Yikes!!! I have a friend who fell asleep driving and got into a crash. Thankfully no one was hurt.

[MammaMia]

Hey, I just looked up the website of the daycare I'm interviewing at, and I can see they have a few other foreigners working there. That makes me feel a bit better. :)

[stash]

I confess that I have a freaking diaper rash. No kidding, and I have no idea what FROM other than pregnancy, but it's so uncomfy and I'm sitting here working feeling like a big baby. :( And I could never tell anyone but YOU guys. :P

[addysonreese]

Hey, I just looked up the website of the daycare I'm interviewing at, and I can see they have a few other foreigners working there. That makes me feel a bit better. :)

Good luck! I'm sure you'll do fine on your interview :)


I confess that I have a freaking diaper rash. No kidding, and I have no idea what FROM other than pregnancy, but it's so uncomfy and I'm sitting here working feeling like a big baby. :( And I could never tell anyone but YOU guys. :P

:hug: No fun at all. I'm sorry. I hope you feel better soon!

I confess I am now worried about getting into college. I called UTA (University of Texas at Arlington) and asked them about my position as a transfer student. They said that I would be considered one since I finished a year of community college, but said they'd still need my HS transcripts if I don't have more than 24 transfer credits.. and I'm pretty sure I don't. I took 28 credits for the whole year, but one class I failed, one I had to drop, and one won't transfer because it was common to the community college - that one was FIVE credits! I didn't do badly in college; my first semester I had a 3.47 GPA, I just don't remember the second semester one, but in high school I was horrible. I'm afraid this is going to affect my chances of being accepted, whereas before I was so confident. I'm scared.

Tell me it's gonna be okay. :ohno:

[stash]

Tell me it's gonna be okay. :ohno:

It's going to be okay. I sucked it up in high school (think like 1.7 GPA), dropped out, got my GED, and still got accepted to a reasonable school with my community college credits. Worse comes to worse you have to take one more class at community, right?

[stephmama]

Is there any reason why you can't just take a few more classes at the community college? Try to find something that comes really easy to you to up your GPA?

[The10Eels]

Tell me it's gonna be okay. :ohno:
I had a 2.667 GPA from high school, and a transfer GPA of 0.68 (yeah.. I screwed around alot my first year or so of college) and still got accepted... although I was accepted on Academic probation...

[Bridget]

I confess that I feel like a total failure when the daycare kids don't eat my food.:eyeroll:
It's silly but it can make or break my whole day. So friday I made black bean soup and it bombed. None of them ate more than a few bites. I was like, "Oh hells no!" and I made them banana french toast for snack. No one gets out of here hungry.:laugh:

[addysonreese]

Thanks ladies. :)


Is there any reason why you can't just take a few more classes at the community college? Try to find something that comes really easy to you to up your GPA?

It's not really that I can't, per se, but for one, this is the first year where I don't have to depend on my mom's taxes, so I'm not sure at all how much money I'm going to get. I'm eligible for grants and things, but that was all preliminary.. not sure yet. I could if I have to, but being I want to go into medical school and I'm already 24, that's gonna suck out more years of my life, lol. I'll already be 32 as an intern when most are 26. As it is, when I went to community college I was 22, so I had to wait two years as it was because I couldn't afford it.

If all that makes any sense, I applaud whoever understands it, hehe.

[stephmama]

I don't really get the tax part lol but if you take a full semester at the community college, it won't be any different than taking them at the university, right? You'll still be getting the classes done.

[daylilies]

I confess that I feel like a total failure when the daycare kids don't eat my food.:eyeroll:
It's silly but it can make or break my whole day. So friday I made black bean soup and it bombed. None of them ate more than a few bites. I was like, "Oh hells no!" and I made them banana french toast for snack. No one gets out of here hungry.:laugh:

I feel the same way when Josh doesn't like my cooking. And I still remember hurting my mom's feelings when I told her I liked Kraft mac and cheese better than her home made :ohno:

[addysonreese]

I don't really get the tax part lol but if you take a full semester at the community college, it won't be any different than taking them at the university, right? You'll still be getting the classes done.

Yeah, this is true. I did most of the general education courses at the community college in NH, so I'm hoping that if I still have to make a few of them up, it won't be many of them at least.

As far as the taxes go, to determine financial aid, if you're under the age of 24 (or aren't married, have children, etc, anything that makes you independent in the government's eyes), they look at your parent's taxes to determine eligibility. My mom made just enough that when I went to CC, I only got 3,500 in a loan for the whole year, and that definitely wasn't enough to cover expenses. So I couldn't afford school, and had to wait until I turned of age, so they could see I make diddly squat and give me funding so I could afford school.

[stephmama]

Ah.


Wouldn't classes be cheaper at the community college also?

[The10Eels]

I confess that I feel like a total failure when the daycare kids don't eat my food.:eyeroll:
It's silly but it can make or break my whole day. So friday I made black bean soup and it bombed. None of them ate more than a few bites. I was like, "Oh hells no!" and I made them banana french toast for snack. No one gets out of here hungry.:laugh:
I want to be a kid in your daycare.... :bellyrubs:

[addysonreese]

Ah.


Wouldn't classes be cheaper at the community college also?

Usually they are. I'm just not sure what other courses I could take that would transfer, since I've already done the "Into to" courses. I'd probably have to call the school if/when they reject me. Here's hoping they won't! My boyfriend says I'm just picking something to stress out about :laugh:

[stephmama]

Is it just a two year college? That might be hard.

[addysonreese]

I confess that I feel like a total failure when the daycare kids don't eat my food.:eyeroll:
It's silly but it can make or break my whole day. So friday I made black bean soup and it bombed. None of them ate more than a few bites. I was like, "Oh hells no!" and I made them banana french toast for snack. No one gets out of here hungry.:laugh:

I would love to be in your daycare! :laugh:

It must be hard since the kids you have probably don't eat at home what you normally give; at least that's my assumption. But it's great that not only do you give them healthy food, you give them diversity as well!

[addysonreese]

Is it just a two year college? That might be hard.

The university I'm trying to get into is a four year college. Even though I did a year already, I'm assuming I'd still need to stay a full four years to finish up my B.A, unless you can finish that sooner. I'm new to all this, haha.

I'm wondering since the pre-med courses are not really common to one college - you can take them anywhere - if I had to make up courses at a CC if I could take some of them there and soften the blow when I go to Uni.

[Bridget]

I would love to be in your daycare! :laugh:

It must be hard since the kids you have probably don't eat at home what you normally give; at least that's my assumption. But it's great that not only do you give them healthy food, you give them diversity as well!
I actually try to keep it close to what they are used to eating. I just make it from scratch and it's really healthy. There is only one little girl (4yrs) who is used to fruity pebbles and the like for lunch. She turned up her nose a lot when she first started. I always told her that she didn't have to eat but she had to sit at the table with us because we like to have her with us. I think she started to eat out of sheer boredom. :laugh: But now she does okay. And she only comes 3 days a week so I always take care to make things I know she'll eat on the days she's here.
A child I used to care for came back to visit and her mom said that at her new school they are rushed through their meals because the day is so packed that they have to stick to a schedule. She said her daughter is always starving when she picks her up. She was like, "The way she talked about food when she was with you, you'd think that's all you guys did all day." :laugh:
I guess I do put a lot of focus on food but I think it's just as important for kids to learn where food comes from and what it does for their bodies as it is to learn ABC's.

[addysonreese]

I guess I do put a lot of focus on food but I think it's just as important for kids to learn where food comes from and what it does for their bodies as it is to learn ABC's.

That's really awesome. I think it teaches them how to be more open to other types of food and how good it is to eat lots of fruits and veggies and be healthy.

I'm trying to learn how to eat better since I wasn't really taught to eat well as a child. I love fruits, not so happy with veggies, but I'm trying to cook them in different ways to make them taste better. Just recently, I made grilled fruit for Clinton and I.. it was sooo delicious!

[stash]

A child I used to care for came back to visit and her mom said that at her new school they are rushed through their meals because the day is so packed that they have to stick to a schedule. She said her daughter is always starving when she picks her up.

Er, any school that's so rushed through meals because their day is "so packed" is skewed in terms of their priorities. :eyebrow:

[Bridget]

Er, any school that's so rushed through meals because their day is "so packed" is skewed in terms of their priorities. :eyebrow:
Totally. She goes to a preschool that has a bus take her to a 4k program and then back to the preschool. Travel time gets in the way of eating time I imagine. :indifferent:

[Cosmosmom]

Usually they are. I'm just not sure what other courses I could take that would transfer, since I've already done the "Into to" courses. I'd probably have to call the school if/when they reject me. Here's hoping they won't! My boyfriend says I'm just picking something to stress out about :laugh:


Is UTA one of the really big schools in the state? Just wondering how picky they are. In my state really only 2 of the big state schools are picky...the rest will take most anyone.

Also, if you are applying for financial aid, you MUST be enrolled in a degree program, not just taking a few classes. And do NOT get any private student loans...only get federal (subsidized is best but unsubsidized is ok too).

[Cosmosmom]

The university I'm trying to get into is a four year college. Even though I did a year already, I'm assuming I'd still need to stay a full four years to finish up my B.A, unless you can finish that sooner. I'm new to all this, haha.

I'm wondering since the pre-med courses are not really common to one college - you can take them anywhere - if I had to make up courses at a CC if I could take some of them there and soften the blow when I go to Uni.

Doesn't matter if it's a four year program...depends on how many classes you take each semester and if you go summers or if they have a mid winter term. Took me 5 years to get my 4 yr degree. and took me 4 year to get my two year masters (went part-time).

[addysonreese]

Doesn't matter if it's a four year program...depends on how many classes you take each semester and if you go summers or if they have a mid winter term. Took me 5 years to get my 4 yr degree. and took me 4 year to get my two year masters (went part-time).

Thanks for that info! I really had no clue how long it could take someone to obtain their degree. I could see myself taking summer courses, but obviously money is my big thing. It would depend on what loans/grants I get.

[addysonreese]

Is UTA one of the really big schools in the state? Just wondering how picky they are. In my state really only 2 of the big state schools are picky...the rest will take most anyone.

Also, if you are applying for financial aid, you MUST be enrolled in a degree program, not just taking a few classes. And do NOT get any private student loans...only get federal (subsidized is best but unsubsidized is ok too).

I'm not really sure about the school. I know it's not the only one, and I think there are some private schools around.. I think it's more of a state-like school.. if that makes sense.

I'm going for my B.A. in English, plus the pre-med courses.. I wanted to major in Russian, but I didn't meet the requirements :( I guess I'll take it as an elective.

[Cosmosmom]

Thanks for that info! I really had no clue how long it could take someone to obtain their degree. I could see myself taking summer courses, but obviously money is my big thing. It would depend on what loans/grants I get.

Generally you will get a loan for the cost of full-tuition. anything from 12-18 credits is full-time usually. I only did 12-14 most semesters and changed majors more than once so it did take a bit longer.

Summer classes would be extra. The longer and further you get in school, the more money you can get.

Money is always the problem. :(

[Cosmosmom]

I spent quite a few years in school and basically planned out things for my younger sister and helped DH when we were dating. I wanted to be an admissions person/academic advisor. I used to LOVE getting the schedules each semester and plotting out my courses. :) I wish that I could have made a career of being a student!

[addysonreese]

Generally you will get a loan for the cost of full-tuition. anything from 12-18 credits is full-time usually. I only did 12-14 most semesters and changed majors more than once so it did take a bit longer.

Summer classes would be extra. The longer and further you get in school, the more money you can get.

Money is always the problem. :(

Money will always be the problem, sadly. The silver lining though, is now with me being an independent student, I have more options.

As far as academics go, I'm definitely going to do any essays on the application, which are optional for transfer students. Essays are my bread and butter, so I'm thinking that's gonna give my application some extra "oomph", and then add that to my GPA from CC, and that might help me get in.

[addysonreese]

I spent quite a few years in school and basically planned out things for my younger sister and helped DH when we were dating. I wanted to be an admissions person/academic advisor. I used to LOVE getting the schedules each semester and plotting out my courses. :) I wish that I could have made a career of being a student!

You sound just like my best friend! She just loves going to school and making all of her classes and schedules. I'm starting to become the same way; I get really organized. She rubbed off on me!

[3andMe]

Sarah, good luck with your interview!

Lauren, I transferred schools three times, and although I wish I could have done more classes at a community college level for the expense, not all of my classes were credited at University. I would definitely talk to your end-destination school and see what would be allowed vs not. I had to submit documentation and argue my case for a few classes.

I just found out dh might go to Europe for a week in late April, within 1-3 weeks of my due date. That's in addition to the week he'll be gone 10 days after my C-Section. I am dealing with the thought that I might be alone for the birth and my hospital stay, if I go early. And I guess I'm okay with it, but I'll be lonely. I'm glad my phone has internet capability.

[addysonreese]

Sarah, good luck with your interview!

Lauren, I transferred schools three times, and although I wish I could have done more classes at a community college level for the expense, not all of my classes were credited at University. I would definitely talk to your end-destination school and see what would be allowed vs not. I had to submit documentation and argue my case for a few classes.

I just found out dh might go to Europe for a week in late April, within 1-3 weeks of my due date. That's in addition to the week he'll be gone 10 days after my C-Section. I am dealing with the thought that I might be alone for the birth and my hospital stay, if I go early. And I guess I'm okay with it, but I'll be lonely. I'm glad my phone has internet capability.

Thanks for the information, Lydia :) I remember the classes I took, but I don't remember the course names exactly.. do you think that will matter when I call?

I'm sorry your DH might not be around when you give birth :hug: Is he going to Europe for work?

[Cosmosmom]

Lydia, glad to know I'm not the only one who transferred 3 times as an undergrad! And even better the last time I moved it was because I wanted to be closer to my boyfriend (we were about an hour apart)...at least he eventually turned into my DH. :)

OMG, I can't believe that he might be doing that to you. Maybe he will change his mind and be around. I would kill mine if he ever did that to me if I ever would end up pg...course he probably won't be in the delivery anyway since he passes out for blood and blood tests and can't even watch fake stuff like Grey's on TV.

[Cosmosmom]

Thanks for the information, Lydia :) I remember the classes I took, but I don't remember the course names exactly.. do you think that will matter when I call?

I'm sorry your DH might not be around when you give birth :hug: Is he going to Europe for work?

Not only will you need the course name but often the number. In my case for a few I had to actually provide course descriptions to get them covered. Overall I was able to transfer all credits BUT not always for subject matter. I had one that was basically english with reading and writing...it was required at one school. My new school refused to recognize it as such and I had to do comp anyway but at least they gave it to me as electives.

If they have your transcripts, than they should be able to tell you what they are taking as transfer and what category they will put it under.

[addysonreese]

Not only will you need the course name but often the number. In my case for a few I had to actually provide course descriptions to get them covered. Overall I was able to transfer all credits BUT not always for subject matter. I had one that was basically english with reading and writing...it was required at one school. My new school refused to recognize it as such and I had to do comp anyway but at least they gave it to me as electives.

If they have your transcripts, than they should be able to tell you what they are taking as transfer and what category they will put it under.

I was gonna request my transcripts to be sent there the day I fill out the application. This whole thing is so frustrating and confusing, lol.

[3andMe]

I'm sorry your DH might not be around when you give birth :hug: Is he going to Europe for work?


Lydia, glad to know I'm not the only one who transferred 3 times as an undergrad! And even better the last time I moved it was because I wanted to be closer to my boyfriend (we were about an hour apart)...at least he eventually turned into my DH. :)

OMG, I can't believe that he might be doing that to you. Maybe he will change his mind and be around. I would kill mine if he ever did that to me if I ever would end up pg...course he probably won't be in the delivery anyway since he passes out for blood and blood tests and can't even watch fake stuff like Grey's on TV.

Not only did I transfer three times, but I also changed my major each time! No wonder it took me 5 years to get my bachelor's degree.

My dh's traveling is work-related. And he asked me if it was okay, and it is not set in stone. I told him he risked not being here for the birth, but that I support his career and everything it takes to advance it. I'm very grateful that his work lets me be at home part-time with the children, and I know that being there or not when the baby is born is just one day out of all of the others he'll have with him.

[addysonreese]

My dh's traveling is work-related. And he asked me if it was okay, and it is not set in stone. I told him he risked not being here for the birth, but that I support his career and everything it takes to advance it. I'm very grateful that his work lets me be at home part-time with the children, and I know that being there or not when the baby is born is just one day out of all of the others he'll have with him.

That's a really good way of looking at it :) I really do hope that he is able to be around for it, though.

[stash]

Lydia, is it truly necessary that he travel then?

[3andMe]

It's not necessary, and I don't even know if it will happen for sure, but it would be beneficial for his career.

ETA: I think I'm going to have to train Claire to put my socks and shoes on for me, since it's already getting pretty difficult and I can't count on dh to help. :laugh:

[Gwenn]

Wow, I missed a lot this weekend.

Lydia, you have a great attitude but I hope for both your sakes that your DH is home for the birth.

Lauren, about the transfer classes I jumped around too. Started at a University, then took time off, then took community college classes, then transferred back to another university. The CC didn't offer any of the classes I needed for my major but I took most of my gen eds there. When I transferred in I only needed the 30 credit hours of my major classes and 18 hours for my minor plus one gen ed science class. I got through in 2 years after transferring although I did take some classes out of sequence. It could have been 1 1/2 years but my major required me to pick one of 3 possible minors so I couldn't use my classes from my previous major towards a new minor. It was a lot cheaper to take the classes at community college and be done with it, so if you do end up needing another semester there it should be okay.

Oh, and I needed to argue my case for transferring some courses, too. I had tested out of English 101 at my first school and then my last school wanted to make me take it. I had to submit a portfolio of my writing for them to review but in the end they didn't make me go back and take it after all.

[stash]

It's not necessary, and I don't even know if it will happen for sure, but it would be beneficial for his career.

Okay, you KNOW I don't say this to get in your face, but you also know that I'm thoroughly candid and would be if I were sitting across the table from you. There are lots of things that are beneficial to a person's career that simply aren't worth it, and it's rather likely he can make up for whatever would make this beneficial in some other way. I know it's cliche, but when we're all about to die, it's unlikely that any one of us will say "I wish I'd done that, it would have been beneficial to my career." On the flip side, "I wish I'd been there for my child's birth" might be one of those regrets.

And, again, I'm here to be the one to say the things that no one else has the balls to (why my friends love me, and why I have only a few good friends :eyeroll::laugh:) but the big what if is, what if something unexpected happened and he weren't there? How would he, or you, feel then?

All love, you know that... :wub:

[stash]

And yes, make mommy's shoes and socks a grand game!

[Cosmosmom]

Not only did I transfer three times, but I also changed my major each time! No wonder it took me 5 years to get my bachelor's degree.

.

Um yeah I think that I had 6 or 7 majors. LOL And one I'm only 3 or 4 classes short of a degree...behavioral science. At that point I switched to philosophy. My dad for the longest time thought it was psychology. LOL

My poor parents were just like pick something and be done with it. I had to pay the max federal loans and than they kicked in whatever that and scholarships didn't cover.

I'm surprised it only took 5 years.

[shutterbird]

:hugs: Lydia. I really hope he can be there for the birth. A babe is only born once...

[missychrissy]

A lot of 'kids' take classes at one college while trying to get accepted an another. I work at Cornell and see many students not make the cut semester after semester. They take classes at other colleges and keep trying. They have it all figured out-which classes they can take that will transfer. I've ever heard of them taking biology and chemistry at another college because it's easier there, and transferring those classes to Cornell, even if they were accepted at Cornell on their first try.


I want to be a kid in your daycare.... :bellyrubs:

Me too Bridget!!!


I just found out dh might go to Europe for a week in late April, within 1-3 weeks of my due date. That's in addition to the week he'll be gone 10 days after my C-Section. I am dealing with the thought that I might be alone for the birth and my hospital stay, if I go early. And I guess I'm okay with it, but I'll be lonely. I'm glad my phone has internet capability.

:(


Okay, you KNOW I don't say this to get in your face, but you also know that I'm thoroughly candid and would be if I were sitting across the table from you. There are lots of things that are beneficial to a person's career that simply aren't worth it, and it's rather likely he can make up for whatever would make this beneficial in some other way. I know it's cliche, but when we're all about to die, it's unlikely that any one of us will say "I wish I'd done that, it would have been beneficial to my career." On the flip side, "I wish I'd been there for my child's birth" might be one of those regrets.

And, again, I'm here to be the one to say the things that no one else has the balls to (why my friends love me, and why I have only a few good friends :eyeroll::laugh:) but the big what if is, what if something unexpected happened and he weren't there? How would he, or you, feel then?

All love, you know that... :wub:
I agree with Stacy. She has balls. :D Oh-and the other stuff is true too. I had an opportunity to work at a clinic in the mall, taking blood pressure for the older folks while I was going to college. Without fail, they all told me they wished they had more time with their children and worked less....ESPECIALLY the men. Many would have tears in their eyes as they talked about it. They all felt that the years they had children at home were the best years in their life.

I really feel lucky I had that chance to work there and hear that theme over and over again-and from men who didn't necessarily know each other. They came from different backgrounds and varying religious beliefs...but the desire to be home with their children more was unanimous.

[Cosmosmom]

I agree with Stacy. She has balls. :D Oh-and the other stuff is true too. I had an opportunity to work at a clinic in the mall, taking blood pressure for the older folks while I was going to college. Without fail, they all told me they wished they had more time with their children and worked less....ESPECIALLY the men. Many would have tears in their eyes as they talked about it. They all felt that the years they had children at home were the best years in their life.

I really feel lucky I had that chance to work there and hear that theme over and over again-and from men who didn't necessarily know each other. They came from different backgrounds and varying religious beliefs...but the desire to be home with their children more was unanimous.


While that is all probably true...life is full of sacrifice. I would myself love to be home more and see family more often (they all are about 5 hour drive away). But reality is that we need to work so we can have things like health insurance, a home, food...

I remember my dad couldn't always make it to my orchestra concerts...mom always went but dad at times worked 2nd shift and couldn't always take off work. We just ended up doing stuff together at other times when he could. I'm glad that I had food and a house and health insurance as a kid.

And yeah a baby is only born once...I would say that it's more important to be there later for things the child can remember.
I most likely will end up adopting at some point and right now thinking of doing it from foster care. I won't be there when my child is born...but that won't affect love.

[missychrissy]

No, nobody said it would. But if given the opportunity to see your child be born, wouldn't you? Many adoptive parents do get that chance, and they take it.

[3andMe]

Okay, you KNOW I don't say this to get in your face, but you also know that I'm thoroughly candid and would be if I were sitting across the table from you. There are lots of things that are beneficial to a person's career that simply aren't worth it, and it's rather likely he can make up for whatever would make this beneficial in some other way. I know it's cliche, but when we're all about to die, it's unlikely that any one of us will say "I wish I'd done that, it would have been beneficial to my career." On the flip side, "I wish I'd been there for my child's birth" might be one of those regrets.

And, again, I'm here to be the one to say the things that no one else has the balls to (why my friends love me, and why I have only a few good friends :eyeroll::laugh:) but the big what if is, what if something unexpected happened and he weren't there? How would he, or you, feel then?

All love, you know that... :wub:

Stacy, I would never let your balls get in between us. I mean that both literally and figuratively. :laugh: Or maybe just figuratively.

I had considered something bad happening, and that was definitely the worst-case scenario. If it was a baby catastrophe, I would have a really hard time with him not being there and so would he. And if something happened to me, well, I can't really picture him recovering from that anyway, let alone dealing with the guilt of not being there. I try not to live my life thinking about the worst things that could happen, but you and I both know they can. And I would have talked about both of those possibilities with him before he made the commitment to go.

On the bright side, he came home tonight and told me the Europe trip has been rescheduled for July and he just has to go to the East Coast for a week instead, an entire month before I'm due. I think that's much better. I guess I jumped the gun on posting, but it was on my mind.

And yes, I know people regret spending time with their children and not their jobs, but on the other hand, his job makes it possible for him to be home every night for dinner and playing with the kids and on weekends and an occasional telecommute day when we can go out to lunch and a park together as a family. He also really likes to travel and we don't do enough of it any more, so it was actually a perk of the job.

[Bridget]

Lydia, I'm glad he's not going. I envy the relationship you two have. It sounds entirely built on mutual respect. Such the opposite of what's going on in my house. :eyeroll:
My mom was able to go home today! I went over there with the kids after daycare. There are still so many unknowns, and just as many painkillers...but tonight was a good night. We were all laughing and telling and stories, going through some old albums. Of course Savana and Kai kept us entertained.
It really does well to just be in the moment sometimes, and not think about the fact that we are slowly losing her.

[addysonreese]

Lydia, I'm glad he's not going. I envy the relationship you two have. It sounds entirely built on mutual respect. Such the opposite of what's going on in my house. :eyeroll:
My mom was able to go home today! I went over there with the kids after daycare. There are still so many unknowns, and just as many painkillers...but tonight was a good night. We were all laughing and telling and stories, going through some old albums. Of course Savana and Kai kept us entertained.
It really does well to just be in the moment sometimes, and not think about the fact that we are slowly losing her.

:hug: Bridget. I'm glad you got to spend a good day with her today!

[shutterbird]

I confess holy headache hell! My period must be around the corner. :headbang:

[MammaMia]

I confess...

[MammaMia]

there are 9000 posts in this thread!

[MammaMia]

I just got back from my job interview. It went well and they seemed to really like me, but I had to speak some English and I know that will count against me. The job requires a lot of communication with parents, and I'm not sure I'm even capable of doing that in Icelandic.

They also said they had over 60 applicants for the job. :shocker: Unemployment really is high at the moment!

[daylilies]

Sarah, you mean you don't speak English fluently? It's flawless when you type.

[missychrissy]

My mom was able to go home today! I went over there with the kids after daycare. There are still so many unknowns, and just as many painkillers...but tonight was a good night. We were all laughing and telling and stories, going through some old albums. Of course Savana and Kai kept us entertained.
It really does well to just be in the moment sometimes, and not think about the fact that we are slowly losing her.

Yay for having a good visit with your Mom!!


I just got back from my job interview. It went well and they seemed to really like me, but I had to speak some English and I know that will count against me. The job requires a lot of communication with parents, and I'm not sure I'm even capable of doing that in Icelandic.

They also said they had over 60 applicants for the job. :shocker: Unemployment really is high at the moment!

Good luck!! Do you know when you'll hear if you got it or not?

[Bridget]

Sarah! I hope you get the job!!!

[MammaMia]

Sarah, you mean you don't speak English fluently? It's flawless when you type.

Haha, yes, English is my first language. It's Icelandic that's the problem. I understand it 100% and speak it ok, but I'm not as fluent as I need to be. I'm really rusty after not working for 2 years.



Good luck!! Do you know when you'll hear if you got it or not?

They said they'd try to let me know by the end of this week.

[stash]

1) Bridget, that is so excellent. I'm glad you had good time with your mom.

2) PHEW, Lydia, I'm glad it works out that there's no conflict. It does suck to make decisions like that, particularly when there are so many variables.

3) I have to comment to Cosmosmom (below), and again, I'm going to get some :eyeroll: and some "aren't you an entitled idealist" looks (I can't find an emoticon for that one!) but life is only full of sacrifices because we create them. If you would love to be home to see your family more often, do it. There is nothing between you and creating the life you want except yourself and your preconceived notions of what your life is supposed to be, as prescribed by society. I know this acutely, because I went from working 80oddass hours a week for 18 years to "grow" my career (which I did quite well) and feeling like I could never get out of the workaholic bind I was in (because I wouldn't be able to afford food, health insurance, you name it) to jumping ship to create my own consulting company, all because Jasper's death said to me "you are going about this all backwards and you're going to regret this life when you're done with it unless you change things NOW." It's been wicked hard in a lot of ways. I've lost a lot of money, I've made a lot of money, I've had to learn to be okay with uncertainty and all flavors of ups and downs, but in the end - every single second has been worth it because both my husband and I have been able to be together, and with Oscar. And now with this new person.

Here's a nice little kick in the pants that I stumbled across the other day (I :wub: TED.com) - the guy's a little obnoxious (probably why I like him) and granted, he's saying some things I don't believe in, like work your ass off and spend only a little time with your family, but his general point applies across the board. http://www.ted.com/talks/gary_vaynerchuk_do_what_you_love_no_excuses.html


While that is all probably true...life is full of sacrifice. I would myself love to be home more and see family more often (they all are about 5 hour drive away). But reality is that we need to work so we can have things like health insurance, a home, food...

I remember my dad couldn't always make it to my orchestra concerts...mom always went but dad at times worked 2nd shift and couldn't always take off work. We just ended up doing stuff together at other times when he could. I'm glad that I had food and a house and health insurance as a kid.

And yeah a baby is only born once...I would say that it's more important to be there later for things the child can remember.
I most likely will end up adopting at some point and right now thinking of doing it from foster care. I won't be there when my child is born...but that won't affect love.

[stash]

And good luck Sarah!

[MammaMia]

Here's a nice little kick in the pants that I stumbled across the other day (I :wub: TED.com) - the guy's a little obnoxious (probably why I like him) and granted, he's saying some things I don't believe in, like work your ass off and spend only a little time with your family, but his general point applies across the board. http://www.ted.com/talks/gary_vaynerchuk_do_what_you_love_no_excuses.html

Hey, that's crazy! I was literally just finished watching that and about to post it as a reply to what you were writing, until I realised you'd beaten me to it.

[Cosmosmom]

No, nobody said it would. But if given the opportunity to see your child be born, wouldn't you? Many adoptive parents do get that chance, and they take it.

Not sure if it is a big deal to me (we were looking at international adoption so baby probably would have been closer to a year anyway). If I do ever get pg...I'm not sure that even I want to be there when the baby is born! And I really don't want DH there. He would just pass out on me and get all the attention. I would rather have his mom or my mom or my sister. DH might be ok during labor but he would probably pass out there too. He doesn't do well with medical stuff or with me in pain.

[stash]

Not sure if it is a big deal to me (we were looking at international adoption so baby probably would have been closer to a year anyway). If I do ever get pg...I'm not sure that even I want to be there when the baby is born! And I really don't want DH there. He would just pass out on me and get all the attention. I would rather have his mom or my mom or my sister. DH might be ok during labor but he would probably pass out there too. He doesn't do well with medical stuff or with me in pain.

If you have the opportunity to give birth, I highly suggest you reconsider this, and that you work on your husband to engage his fears. Birth is one of the most extraordinary things in life - even under difficult circumstances (I know this one from experience, too).

[Janeen]

I confess that I just wanted to share this picture because I ran across it on Photobucket and I love it so much.

It's our first sunset in Maui on our honeymoon.

http://i127.photobucket.com/albums/p138/illusi0ns4u/hawaii2.jpg