As a brand-spanking new mom, I was thinking it might be fun to have a group for all of us who are trying to squeeze episodes of Lost in between child rearing. My baby is 6 months old next week and I think she's as cute as bug. (Besides maybe I can get some advice on convincing her to sleep through the night!) :baby:

Welcome one and all! I'm just calling us Proud Parents! cause that's what we are.

Members:
notlost, justexploring #1
Kjones_usa #2
StickMang #3
jellybean1 #4
Baileysdad #5
blahbityblah #6
dep11 #7
stircrazy #8
lonewolf #9
Katiedid #10
HelloooClareece #11
aydans_mommy04 #12
ladysv8 #13
lostinsandwhich #14
lost_is_intriguing #15
chelly #16
ClaireFun #17
jellyfrog #18
goddessblue #19
spirit4ever #20
Sdobiak #21
Hanso Founder #22
Jess42 #23
Faust81#24
amathews99 #25
Heroic Poser #26
pissedoffgiraffe #27
kel_el #28
rabia #29
kidarc #30
sheba #31
Jetka #32
gaffa #33
AshnMel #34
bellablue #35
LostApril #36
freakylostchick #37
twilightsun #38
lost_in_DC #39
care_n_jim #40
York #41

Hey Not LOst! Mother of 2 Here!! :) That is one adorable avi you got going!!!

As for sleeping through the night, there is a book that saved my life, and I read it in about 2 days. I bought it at my local B&N, it is called: "Sleeping through the Night: How Infants, Toddlers, AND their parents can get a good night's sleep" by Jodi Mindell.

It was such a great book, too bad I let some one borrow it and haven't seen it since! Grrrr...my neighbor needs to borrow it.

Well, that's it for me right now! Take Care!

I have a son, though he's long past sleep issues...unless induced by late dessert or wanting to watch something on TV! He and my wife are the most precious and wonderful things in my life. Mrs. Mang and I are LOST devotees, but more than the show binds us...

He is the sea, and she is the land; together they comprise my world.
She is the sun, and he is a star; both are the lights in mine eyes.
He has my heart, she has my soul; a permanent connection is made.
She brings the eve, and he is the dawn; every minute they stay with me.
He is the petals, and she is the stem; a flower so fine n'er elsewhere exist.
She is the sky and he is the rain; may I forever look up and be drenched.

-Mang

AUTISM AWARENESS

Thanks for the heads up on the book! It is always great to talk to other parents. I teach high school so I spend all day with teenagers and the rest of my time with a 6 month old. I am straddling the childhood spectrum! My husband and I are bonkers about Lost too. I am glad that you all stopped by and said howdy!

P.S. That's the sweetest poem!

Well, if this is a group, I'll sign up. I have a 2 year old. I make sure she is in bed and asleep before Lost comes on so I can settle in and make myself comfy. Last year it started at 8pm in the USA, so I guess 9pm works a little better. I have time to get her in bed. Unfortunatly, my husband isn't into Lost. I have lots of people at work that are, so I can't wait till the next morning to discuss my new theories.:)

Bailey is 17 months old and has yet to sleep through the night...so good luck with that...:frusty:

I have an 11 year old son with Autism...greatest little man in the world...full-time dad so it makes thing a little fun around the house...

Hi all! I have a soon-to-be 3 year old boy, Justin.
notlost, I wish I could help you with the sleeping through the night thing, Justin started doing it within two weeks of bein home from the hospital. Getting him to sleep by himself tho, that's the hard part.

Use the VCR or DVR and watch it when you can. Even though my son is 6, bedtime can still be trying.

Hi new mommy, notlost, justexploring. I started surfing the web when my second child was born. He'll be 8 next month. I've been stircrazy since then. My 12 year old daughter is online WAAY to much so we compete for computer time. I've got lots of advice to shove down your throoat since my babies are now big kids.

Sleeping through the night? Who does that?

I'd be glad to join this group, and I would suggest that we talk about the joys, miracles and difficulties of parenhood. I suppose that makes me #3, but what do we call ourselves? Once we create a name, we can modify the front page to list the membershpi and the charter, if that makes sense to all.

I am an extreemely proud and blessed Dad of a 9-yr. old boy with autism. He is my inspiration, and my lifelong dedication, and I wrote the poem below to he and my wonderful wife, with whom I am most incredibly blessed. I have a small addition that was inadvertantly left out:

He is the sea, and she is the land; together they comprise my world.
She is the sun, and he is a star; both are the lights in mine eyes.
He has my heart, she has my soul; a permanent connection is made.
She brings the eve, and he is the dawn; every minute they stay with me.
He is the petals, and she is the stem; a flower so fine n'er elsewhere exist.
She is the sky and he is the rain; may I forever look up and be drenched.

-Mang

AUTISM AWARENESS

She is the lock, and I am the key; he is the miracle behind the door.

-Mang

My sweet :rolleyes: daughter is 24 years old, works at the same place I do, & for anyone who doesn't know already - posts on the fuse as Sassy Lassie.

Boy, I could tell you some embarrassing stories from her childhood, but I better not, 'cause someday she'll be choosing which nursing home to put me in! :laughing:

I'd be glad to join this group, and I would suggest that we talk about the joys, miracles and difficulties of parenhood. I suppose that makes me #3, but what do we call ourselves? Once we create a name, we can modify the front page to list the membershpi and the charter, if that makes sense to all.
Any one want to take charge of this? I think I'm #2. Anyone, going...going....
notlost,justexploring - do you or any one else have an idea for a name? Don't have anything catching at the moment.

Any one want to take charge of this? I think I'm #2. Anyone, going...going....
notlost,justexploring - do you or any one else have an idea for a name? Don't have anything catching at the moment.

jelly,

I'd be honored to help organize this group with you, but we should wait to see whether notlost wants to head the group as originator/OP. If not, you and I could maintain the list and group charter in the #2 and #3 message slot.

In the meantime, I suggest we think of a name. The original is Proud Parents, or perhaps PP-LFK. If that's not desirable, then we could think of another.

What say you notlost?
-Mang

Well, baby decided to get a little cold so I haven't been on in a bit. I'm excited to see so many posts. I'm willing to head this group up, but am not really sure that I know how to do that. Every time I feel like I know what I'm doing someone comes along to point out that I've posted something incorrectly. Name suggestions? And what's our next step? Maybe StickMang should be in charge since I'm apparently not as clever as I thought. :)

Hey there notlost,justexploring! I am the mother of 5, ages 24, 21, 17, 16 and 13. My tip for sleeping through the night is baby rice cereal. Even if you're breast feeding this can save your sanity. Here's what I did: At the beginning of the final night-time feeding give your baby one tablespoon of cereal mixed with one oz. breastmilk/formula and after a good burp continue with the rest of the feeding. Gerber makes a bottle specifically for this. I think Playtex does as well. No need to worry over nipple confusion since the bottle won't be in the baby's mouth long enough to be a problem. All of this depends on whether your baby has allergies to rice or latex. I hope this helps you. It worked like a charm for me EVERY time. Good things to you and your new family!

My son with Autism has a double ear infection!! He is miserable today and just doesn't understand why he feels so bad..it is so sad to hear him..we took him to the hospital and the triage nurse had bad acne and Max pointed at him and said "Mosquito Bites!!" Another Maxie moment..still doesn't top the 80 year old woman he took the Depends away from in the store as he announced "Diapers are for babies..."

Bailey also has a cold..going to be a long night...she is howling and coughing and hacking...

The joys of parenthood!! Good thing I don't need to get up and go to work in the morning...:)

Hey there Baileysdad. So sorry your babies are sick. I hope they get better soon. Break out the humidifier if you haven't already!

It is humming away as we speak..er...type:)

Thanks for the well wishes.....we all have to deal with sick children but it is no fun when they are all sick!

notlost, jelly,

I think this is a great concept by notlost with great potential to share experiences or funny stories, parental milestones, situational advice, and it deserves to remain as a group/ship. While I'd offered my leadership to keep the group running, in no means do I want to usurp it from the concept originator; I was simply reacting to the Moderator's post that this thread could be moved/deleted if we don't make it a group/ship.

I would however love to work with you both to manage the group as I am a proud and passionate parent. BaileysDad amongst many others on the board, with whom I've had the honor to converse, know my passion for parenting given my undying love for my son (and wife) and my lifelong dedication to his autism disorder.

I too have a "call in" to a mod regarding the management of a group/ship, and I will search the FAQs.

I offer you both my services to assist you both in the management of this group.
-Mang

I sent a question to the mods as I couldn't find any info on groups/ships. Sometimes setting things up on the fuse is a little confusing. Baileys'dad I am sorry to hear about the ear infection. We just survived ours and it wasn't ANY fun!

Well, now I'm really confused and defer to anyone who understands better than I. I was thinking about a name like Lost Your Mama and Papa? but I think that might be lame, or how about Lost Parents (I'm afraid people would think it is a ship for those who are mourning the loss of their actual parents though) Little Lost Baby? Anyway, I think I understand the rules -- which don't completely make sense. We form a group and list our membership and then we start another thread somewhere else to discuss whatever we want and that thread must be posted in the appropriate place. ?

if you all don't care about membership or assigning group numbers or whatever, would you just want one of us to move this thread into Off-Topic sub-forum and just have your discussion there?
That's ok with me. Or, I could just start a new thead in that forum with the details/objectives of the thread, and have this one deleted to start it clean.
What do you think notlost and StickMang? I'd be willing to start the new thread, but since this kinda started as a 3 way group, I'd like to know what you think.:smile:

When it's figured out I'd love to be a part of it! I'm mom to 7-mo. old Max who is just now sleeping through the night (mostly). Not only am I proud of him but I am proud to see people in this forum so dedicated to their families.

Mang, your poem made me cry.

Hey!! I am a mommy. ( i was about to say *new mommy*, but my child is older now) My baby boy is now 17, almost 18 months old (UGH.. is he really that old already?) I can't believe it! Anyway... my baby didn't sleep through the night until he was a year old! He would wake up every 2-4 hours (usually more on the end of TWO hours) to eat! I breastfeed so it was hard for him to feel really full I guess!! When he was a year I switched him to whole milk and the very first night he slept through the night! I was shocked, and relieved! When you start to think that there isn't an end insight, and that you will never be able to sleep though the night, boom, they surprise you! Keep trying different things to fill your babies belly, maybe some cereal would help! I used to take cereal, mix it with a little milk and some fruity baby food! My son loved it, and still does! Its thick and will help greatly! Hope this helps a little bit!!

*stef*

P.S. It also helped my son to get a security object besides my breasties... (a blankie):lipsseal: He loves it and will sleep like a baby with it, but wont sleep at all without it!

I, Also Want To Join. I Have Three Beautiful Children. 2 Girls, Ages 7 And 4, And A Boy, Who You Can See Is Very Silly (avie), Is 3. I Run Around All Day With My Head Cut Off, But At The End Of The Day It Is All Worth It. I Love Those Mini Me's... They Refuse To Go To Bed When Lost Is On, But Other Than That, I've Been Lucky That They Sleep Through The Night Since They Were A Month Old And They Dont Mind Sleeping Alone In Their Rooms....

Hi, I would love to join! All the rules for these groups were really confusing me too so is the place to join or do we join the other thread first?

Anyways..I have 5 kids from 2 different marriages: 21, 18, 16, 13 and with my 2nd and current (and last) hubby a 3yr old. So I have college kids, high school, middle school and preschool..wow huh?

OK, so here is where I go to sign up? These new rules are soooo confusing! I belong to DIMPLES and that one still follows the old rules...

I guess I'll tell you guys again about my kids: I have 4 from my first marriage, 21, 18, 16, 13 and my 2nd marriage I have a 3 yr old..so college to preschool...it makes life very interesting!

I also love the idea of children size Lost apparel! Anyone find any?

I'm looking forward to chatting about our kids...

Ok, I think I got it all figured out!

So we chat here, right?

I just wanted to say that my 3yr old son Michael knows that tonight Mommy's show is on and that he can't talk to Mommy until the commercials..haha He does real good too! He'll say is that your Lost show Mommy?

My baby is too little to know yet, but our goal is to get her asleep by 9:00!

Well the show is on at 8 (central time) where I live and 9 is bedtime so I'm glad he lets me watch the show!

Do you have to have babies? My 'baby' is nearly 15. I have a 23 year old who is proudly serving in the US Air Force and a daughter who is currently in college.

I'll join. My 5-year old knows that mommy loves LOST, too, lostinsandwich. My three-year olds know that they get to watch a movie in Daddy and Mommy's room. It's pretty sad, but we're so addicted to this show.

My sweet boy is sick today. :frown:

Yay for babies! I've got a friend who got herself knocked up.

I know Locke_is_Intriquing, sometimes I feel quilty but it's only 1 hour a week. Then I don't feel as bad!

My older kids think I need help..haha because I am so addicted. They just don't understand!!!! :)

One thing that helped my daughter to go to sleep was rocking with her in a rocking chair. Or read a book. She is 26 months. They need something to calm them or slow them down to allow them to get sleepy. And when my daughter was about 6 months old, I would let her cry for a little bit after I put her to bed. Obviously as a mom, I knew all she wanted was to be held and she didn't need a diaper chage, eat, etc. She had to realize on her own it was bedime, and she can't get her way all the time. I don't want that to seem mean, but they need to learn independnce. If that makes sense.

Do you have to have babies? My 'baby' is nearly 15. I have a 23 year old who is proudly serving in the US Air Force and a daughter who is currently in college.

I don't see why not. You have experience, and can give us advice.:smile:

Do you have to have babies? My 'baby' is nearly 15. I have a 23 year old who is proudly serving in the US Air Force and a daughter who is currently in college.

Go Air Force... even though I was in the Marine Corps!! Make sure you thank them for serving!!!

I have a parenting question.... My sister is on a month training exercize with the military and I'm watching her 19mo. son... I dropped him off at daycare today and found out that one of the other kids in his class has Chicken Pox. I had C.P. when I was around 7, I don't know whether it's a sure thing he's going to get it (even though I know they should be exposed to get it over with). Am I going to have to take time off work and how bad is it going to be!?!?!?!:fear2: Should I just call my sister and tell her I GIVE UP!!! And see if she can come home? I had a 15 year old foster daughter that didn't scare me as much as this is going to!!!!

Can I ask how you get an avatar? I read that they won't allow you to have one until at least 10 days, but I can't figure out how to add one. Maybe I can't yet because I don't post a lot, or maybe I just can't figure it out.
Thanks to whomever can help.

Go Air Force... even though I was in the Marine Corps!! Make sure you thank them for serving!!!

I have a parenting question.... My sister is on a month training exercize with the military and I'm watching her 19mo. son... I dropped him off at daycare today and found out that one of the other kids in his class has Chicken Pox. I had C.P. when I was around 7, I don't know whether it's a sure thing he's going to get it (even though I know they should be exposed to get it over with). Am I going to have to take time off work and how bad is it going to be!?!?!?!:fear2: Should I just call my sister and tell her I GIVE UP!!! And see if she can come home? I had a 15 year old foster daughter that didn't scare me as much as this is going to!!!!

Just because they are exposed to it it doesn't mean they will get it. I used to work in a daycare and things went around all the time and some kids got it, some kids did not.

If they do get it..the kids are usually out of commission for about a week. Its normally not severe. The kids get cranky because they are itchy but its rarely serious.

I've got a one week year old daughter...was born last Wed (Feb.8).

Congratulations, xero. What a joy. Just know it's ok to rest when the baby naps! The cleaning and such will be there later, trust me.

Don't worry about it!! I am sure that all of us remember being so tired that we could hardly take a shower without falling over:) My baby refused to sleep for the first few months without me RIGHT there with him... it was... exhausting! I wasn't sure who in the world went to bed as late as i did, woke up every two hours, and was up in time to watch the SUPER EARLY news! Crazy times!

*stef*

I have a parenting question.... My sister is on a month training exercize with the military and I'm watching her 19mo. son... I dropped him off at daycare today and found out that one of the other kids in his class has Chicken Pox. I had C.P. when I was around 7, I don't know whether it's a sure thing he's going to get it (even though I know they should be exposed to get it over with). Am I going to have to take time off work and how bad is it going to be!?!?!?!:fear2: Should I just call my sister and tell her I GIVE UP!!! And see if she can come home? I had a 15 year old foster daughter that didn't scare me as much as this is going to!!!!
Most infants get the CP vacine now. My daughter did. Do you have his vacination card? It will say if it is up to date. Or call the doctors office. They should be able to tell you.

Can I ask how you get an avatar? I read that they won't allow you to have one until at least 10 days, but I can't figure out how to add one. Maybe I can't yet because I don't post a lot, or maybe I just can't figure it out.
Thanks to whomever can help.
You have to click on the -user CP- in the toolbar at the top of the screen. Click on avatar, and then hit the botton browse to select a pic off your PC. Hope that helps.

My little guy just turned 3 on Monday. I'm lucky, he's always been a really good, happy baby. Even the whole terrible 2's thing wasn't that bad. Now it's just the potty training that's driving me crazy.
I'd love to have another one, actually I wanted to get pregnant a long time ago but, it'd probably be best to wait a little longer. What do you think works out better? Having a big age gap between kids or having them closer in age?

Can I ask how you get an avatar? I read that they won't allow you to have one until at least 10 days, but I can't figure out how to add one. Maybe I can't yet because I don't post a lot, or maybe I just can't figure it out.
Thanks to whomever can help.

You have to have at least 10 posts and be a member for 10 days. You almost have ten posts. Then you can chose an avatar from the gallery or create one of your own.

My little guy just turned 3 on Monday. I'm lucky, he's always been a really good, happy baby. Even the whole terrible 2's thing wasn't that bad. Now it's just the potty training that's driving me crazy.
I'd love to have another one, actually I wanted to get pregnant a long time ago but, it'd probably be best to wait a little longer. What do you think works out better? Having a big age gap between kids or having them closer in age?

That is an EXCELLENT question. My husband and love our 6 month old so much. Other than not being a great sleeper she's a wonderful baby and we know we want more. Many of my friends had their kids maybe 16 months apart. I'm tempted but know that two babies in diapers could send me over the edge. But, as they say, I'm not getting any younger . . .

Bailey went to bed at 11 tonight...she has RSV again so it has been miserable for her..for those who don't know..she is 17 months old and a terror..just look at her grin in my avitar..says it all...

Bailey went to bed at 11 tonight...she has RSV again so it has been miserable for her..for those who don't know..she is 17 months old and a terror..just look at her grin in my avitar..says it all...
Bailey always looks like she's having a good time. We had an RSV scare, but it just turned out to be a nameless virus. It was absolutely NO fun. I always feel so bad when she's uncomfortable. She doesn't understand and wants me to change things. Last week I treated her head for cradle cap, and thought I was using plain mineral oil, but it had all these other ingredients in it -- and it caused her whole head to get dry and itchy. She was so miserable! (On the other hand, the cradle cap is completely gone) I feel for you.

Bailey went to bed at 11 tonight...she has RSV again so it has been miserable for her..for those who don't know..she is 17 months old and a terror..just look at her grin in my avitar..says it all...

Poor baby!!! I haven't seen you around for awhile BD so I haven't been keeping up on your av's... She's ALWAYS SO much fun!!!! I'll get her on our prayer chain ASAP!!

My 4 yo. nephew (not the one with the soon to have pox:rolleyes: ) just got out of the hospital after having his 4th pacemaker change!! He's got down syndrome and was born with a Avio-ventricular disorder (sp?) The little guy pulled thru with NO problems and is already playing and giving his older sister hell!!! I just had to brag, he's the pride/superman of the family!!:biggrin: :biggrin: :biggrin:

My daughter is 26 months, and my husband and I are now trying for #2. Hope to have one before she was 3, but if it doesn't happen this time, we're going to wait until May. We don't want 2 kids with birthdays in the same month. And around Christmas! That's not fun!
http://www.thefuselage.com/Threaded/showthread.php?t=30528&highlight=potty
Might want to check out this thead I started awhile back. Potty Traing!
My daughter still will go only once in awhile. She won't tell anyone she has to go either. Ussually when I ask her if she has to go, she says, "No potty, no potty" and runs! I'm just letting it be for know. Like some one else said. She won't go to kindergarten in pull ups.

My little guy just turned 3 on Monday. I'm lucky, he's always been a really good, happy baby. Even the whole terrible 2's thing wasn't that bad. Now it's just the potty training that's driving me crazy.
I'd love to have another one, actually I wanted to get pregnant a long time ago but, it'd probably be best to wait a little longer. What do you think works out better? Having a big age gap between kids or having them closer in age?


Hi there Blah! I've got 5 of my own, everything from 24 to 14. I've done a wedding and I've done wipes and I can tell you as a parent and as a nurse that usually having your oldest be 4 years old when you have a new baby is the greatest. They are old enough then to be past hissy fits for "no reason", they are articulate so you can explain things to them, they are usually VERY helpful if you let them get you a diaper or help with a bath- pretty much anything that helps them know that they are vital to the situation and Mommy's life is SOOO much easier because they are the best helper ever. I had 2 of mine 13 months apart(NOT my idea, but God's) and it was like having twins. Double duty everything and no way to communicate to the older one why there were certain times he simply couldn't be in my lap just then. Lots of tears and tantrums and awake babies at first. It's great now though because they're double dating for the Prom. I don't know if any of this helps you, but I hope so. Blessings to you and your family whatever may come.
<hr>
Bailey went to bed at 11 tonight...she has RSV again so it has been miserable for her..for those who don't know..she is 17 months old and a terror..just look at her grin in my avitar..says it all...

Hi again BD! Poor Bailey and poor Daddy! It's hard to have a case of early terrible twos and RSV at the same time. She is so precious in your avitar. You can almost see all the kissy prints on her. I read your posts all the time because it seems no matter what the topic is, you have something intelligent to say. As well versed as you are on our favorite show, I know you are even more knowledgable about your own child so I offer no unsolicited advice. However, I do have a lot of experience and I'm in the medical field, so if you need info. about anything I can find it out for you if I don't know the answer myself. Just offering and hoping the babies are better soon.:smile:

Now, I'm frigtened at the thought of having my kids close together . . . sounds like a TON of work

Hi notlost. No, don't be scared! There are plusses and minusses to everything. You just have to know what your strengths are and go with what feels right to YOU. I think children are always a blessing and I really feel for those who want to have them and can't. It's really hard though. The toughest job in the world, but also the most rewarding. Cherish all those sweet little moments and hold those memories tight for when things get rough during those teen years because the next thing you know you're in my shoes and you're the mother-of-the-bride/groom. I can't wait for grandbabies so I can love on them and then GIVE THEM BACK!

Well I don't think there are any perfect age spans but I had my first 4 all about 2-3 yrs apart. It was great but very hectic..I changed diapers for 10 years straight! They are all teens/young adults now and I have loved watching them grow up. Now having a 3yr old has been such a joy also. The older ones love to help and I can cherish each moment even more now. He just finished potty training. I found out that waiting til he was after 3 helped because he understood and was very ready. Only took a week, even thru the night!

Thanks to everyone on the avartar help.

I can say that I wanted my children 2 1/2 years apart. I thought that would be a good age gap. I was due at almost that time frame with my second. Well, it would have been great except that my second pregnancy resulted in twins. But man, although we're so busy, waht a blessing those three children are.

How do I get my name on the list?

Welcome locke_is_intriguing! You are number 15!
The whole twins thing is frightening and exciting. I wouldn't be surprised if twins were in our future -- all FOUR of my grandparents were either a twin or had twin siblings! Are your fraternal or maternal?

Hi again...don't get on here much (meaning the Fuse) so I don't get on here much (meaning Proud Parents).

Taking my questions to the other OT Thread! Thanks MODS. :p

Funny how popular this thread is! Thanks for creating it! :D As for the kids...I am sorry about Bailey having RSV...does it get serious? My friend had to wait it out in the hospital with her son when he had it....

My kids are 2 and 6 and they are both girls...would have loved to have them closer together, but Mother Nature (or God) had a different plan. :) I wouldn't exchange them (most of the time) for the world.

Welcome locke_is_intriguing! You are number 15!
The whole twins thing is frightening and exciting. I wouldn't be surprised if twins were in our future -- all FOUR of my grandparents were either a twin or had twin siblings! Are your fraternal or maternal?


Thanks, notlost. Mine are fraternal, a girl and a boy. There is no direct line for twins on either side of the family. Hubby's grandmother has twin sisters -- twins in my family are even further off the "tree branches." And, I did actually have them on my own, without fertility treatments. It's a real challenge, but such a reward too. If you happen to have them, you'll love it. Just don't go out too much when they're small. It's like you're a freak show. Everyone stops you.

I never thought about people freaking out about twins. But I guess two babies are pretty cute and I would imagine you'd get stopped now and then.

Hi all! This isn't relevant to anything recently discussed. I just wanted to take a moment to brag about my oldest. She's 24 and got married in October. That's her and my new son-in-law on my avi. She smiled so much that day she looked like she had slept with a hanger in her mouth. Baby sister was maid-of-honor(13) and all 3 brothers(21,17,16) stood for the groom. 17 year old played "Here Comes the Bride" on his sax for big sis to walk down the aisle to. Great day and great kids! Thanks for letting me have my moment, ya'll.

Katiedid

Katiedid,
Wow! That's cool. I love hearing stories like that. Family is impotant, and I love to brag too. Thanks for sharing that.:)
J

My son is my inspiration and my lifelong dedication. He is autistic, but I don't want that to imply a negative connotation, as he is a bright light in my sky; it is simply a statement of fact in his reality.

We had a wonderful Valentine's celebration for my wife, with a chocolate theme. Chocolate lava cake with chocolate fudge, chocolate chunk brownie chocolate ice cream with chocolate whip cream and a chocolate truffle; I passed on the hot chocolate! He still wants to make a special meal for his mom, so we were watching a cooking show to get some ideas. He still hasn't decided on a meal, but he is trying his best to organize it.

I wrote them both a poem for Valentine's Day, some of you may have read in the memberlist thread where such shouldn't have been:

He is the sea, and she is the land; together they comprise my world.
She is the sun, and he is a star; both are the lights in mine eyes.
He has my heart, she has my soul; a permanent connection is made.
She brings the eve, and he is the dawn; every minute they stay with me.
He is the petals, and she is the stem; a flower so fine n'er elsewhere exist.
She is the sky and he is the rain; may I forever look up and be drenched.
She is the lock, and I am the key; he is the miracle behind the door.

-Mang

I got one on the way. Due September.

First one!:biggrin:

I got one on the way. Due September.

First one!:biggrin:
That's awsome!! Congrats! Check us out from time to time for some great advice!
Do you want to know the sex? How about every one else. How did you learn the sex of you newborn? Did you wait, ultrasound?

I got one on the way. Due September.

First one!:biggrin:

Congratulations! If this is your first you are in for a TREAT! My baby is 6 months old. She was born in late August and is a cutie PIE! We found out that she was a girl. My husband and I are different races and we justified finding out the sex by saying, "Hey we don't know what color she's gonna be, so we may as well find out the sex!" I'm excited to have Monday off! As a working mommy I love being able to stay home with my doodle bug.

hi you all everybody... i finally got some clarification for these group threads... this is a very recent update/change from a convo between Halfrek and Karri... for the better, i think:

groups can start and have discussion in the groups/ships sections as long as they have a purpose/direction and are NOT chat, NOT roleplay, or random one liners.

this goes for ships in the Lost groups sub-forum (i.e. Jater Couch, Outkasts, etc.) and Character groups (i.e. DIMPLES, Desmond Clan, etc.)... so as long as it's meaningful discussion, it's good to go :)

sorry for all the confusion, it went from what it is now, to these threads only being designated for membership sign-up, and now back to this... anyway, i merged the thread from off-topic and deleted some of the posts that mentioned the now-old rules...

i did the same with your Lost Teachers group, notlost,justexploring...

Thanks solidstealth.
I have a question for all you parents. My daughter, 2yrs old, had a little fight this past week at daycare over a toy. My daughter ended up with a scratch on her nose. I guess it got pretty heated. Ha Ha. :ohwell: Well, probaly not really funny. We are trying for another child, and since she's an only child now at home, I was wondering how some of you dealt with child scwables? Obviously you have to treat them differently for each situation and age.
Thanks.
J

I got one on the way. Due September.

First one!:biggrin:

OMG... congrats!!! My son is a year and a half now! He's still a new born in my eyes! It goes by sooo quickly!! Lets see.. we should all give you ONE piece of advice!!! My advice would be to realize that no matter how tired you are, or how long A SINGLE night can feel, that it will be over soon! My son took over a year to sleep through the night! I was waking up every 2 to 3 hours rocking him, feeding him, swaddling him! It was crazy, I thought my life would never get back to normal, but it did!!!!

Stef

P.S. Do you know if is a boy or a girl?
<hr>
Congratulations! If this is your first you are in for a TREAT! My baby is 6 months old. She was born in late August and is a cutie PIE! We found out that she was a girl. My husband and I are different races and we justified finding out the sex by saying, "Hey we don't know what color she's gonna be, so we may as well find out the sex!" I'm excited to have Monday off! As a working mommy I love being able to stay home with my doodle bug.

Aww your baby was born the same time of years as my son! My son was born in late august too.. except a year earlier! What date was your baby born on? I love finding people with the same birth date as my... like you say... doodle bug:) My son was born on the 27th.. the very day the doctors said he was due! It was wierd.. my husband was born on his due date, and I had joked that our son would be just like him, and be born on his due date too, not knowing that it would really work out that way! I just like to think they are both very punctual! :)

Stefanie

I'd love to join! I have a 17 month old that I simply adore (he's my only one). I'm already trying to hook him up with Bailey ;).

My son (Wyatt) is an angel. He's such a good baby. Only real issue we've had so far is recent...he likes to throw temper tantrums and when he gets upset he head-butts things. It used to really upset me but now I just look at him like he's lost his mind. He is starting to ease off a bit since he is figuring out that he can't get a rise out of me by doing that stuff. He's also going through a picky eating phase, but we just do the best we can and keep giving him stuff until we find something he'll eat

For all the new parents, getting them to sleep through the night is so tough. Wyatt co-slept with us his first year. It really wasn't by choice, it just ended up that way. When we were new parents and completely exhausted, we realized he would sleep longer if he slept next to us or on our chest. And in the interest of trying to sleep so I wasn't a complete wench at work, he slept with us. Getting him to move in to his own room and crib was a challenge. Took a couple of weeks for him to warm up to it and not scream bloody murder when it was bed time. A good bedtime routine was a huge help. I also read about this cd and bought it. It's called "The Baby Sleep System" and helped a LOT. It has classical music mixed with actual womb sounds and is really soothing. I even use it myself sometimes when I can't sleep.

<hr>


Aww your baby was born the same time of years as my son! My son was born in late august too.. except a year earlier! What date was your baby born on? I love finding people with the same birth date as my... like you say... doodle bug:) My son was born on the 27th.. the very day the doctors said he was due! It was wierd.. my husband was born on his due date, and I had joked that our son would be just like him, and be born on his due date too, not knowing that it would really work out that way! I just like to think they are both very punctual! :)

Stefanie

Peyton was born on the 23rd. The doctor's had predicted the 31st and I kept telling them that they were a week behind, but they looked at me like I didn't have a clue what I was talking about. My prediction was the 25th, so I was pretty close. You are right about personality to -- she can't wait to get started on anything!

Welcome chelly! You are #16!

Thanks for all the hard work solid! I am glad that everything is cleared up!

I realize that I was the last one to post, but since it has been a day . . . I thought I'd put a question out there for the experience parents . . . feeding your baby "real" food:
1. what age did you feed them?
2. what things did you feed them first, rice ceral, but then what?
3. any grand words of wisdom so that I don't make huge mistakes

Thanks!

Hi all,

I'd like to join if I can (am I doing it in the right place? Sorry if I'm not!). I'm from the Uk and I have a gorgeous little boy who was born - get this, notlost, justexploring - on August 23rd! (but in 2004). Yay! Birthday buds! :biggrin: He slept through the night really early on (while just being brestfed) but wouldn't nap in his cot - only on my lap-arrgggh! The book 'Secrets of the Baby Whisperer' was my salvation - for all aspects of Isaac's life, to be honest. He's now a happy crazy little 18 month old who has just got into saying 'cuckoo clock ' - well, goo goo gock, anyway!

I started feeding him at 7 months and started with 2 spoons of pureed carrot, which he didn't like to start with, but by the end of the week thought it was fantastic! Now, although he has a definite sweet tooth (like Mummy!) he eats everything and anything - he was eating olives filled with chillies last night! :shock:

Oh and of course I adore Lost, think it's the best TV show since Twin Peaks :) and can't wait to see the next episode! Favourite characters are Hurley, Jin, Locke, Eko and Sayid. I had rather a rude dream about SAyid last night and am still feeling rather happy about it! :blshing1:

Looking forward to talking to you all.

Welcome Claire! You are number 17! How could I deny a birthday buddy from across the pond. We are glad to hear from you. Congratulations on your own cutie pie.

I am a little sad about Lost being a re-run tonight, but we shall endure!

I started my daughter on cheerios at 6 months. She could just barely reach for them. Got her to work on her coordination skills. As far as baby food, I think it was about 5 months when I started her on cereal w/ a spoon. I mixed it with formula. After about 3 weeks, once she sorta mastered the whole "have to swallow it, not spit it out" idea, I gave her carrots. After every few days, I offered her a different food. I alternated veg, fruit, veg, etc. She never did like the step 3 foods. She just wnted what we were eating. That was about 9 months.

I heard that once you feed them fruit -- they don't want anything else.

most babies really like sweet stuff... but.... if you keep feeding the veggies, they won't grow angry with you when you switch from fruit to veggies! My son got a little picky... but don't give you baby anything until he eats his veggies! Like today, my son didn't want his corn, he wanted a banana... but I refused until he ate his veggies! When he gets hungry.. he WILL eat!

I heard that once you feed them fruit -- they don't want anything else.
Yeah, I'd agree with that. Mikala prefers the fruit or the sweet veggies like corn. She eat all fruits, but only eats a few veggies. You learn with the first one. My next one I'm going to try to just start with the veggies.

Hey, cool, a parenting thread! Hi everybody! Can I join? I have a 7 year old and a 4 year old who MUST be in their rooms at 9pm on Wednesdays. Not that they're ever actually asleep by then...

I realize that I was the last one to post, but since it has been a day . . . I thought I'd put a question out there for the experience parents . . . feeding your baby "real" food:
1. what age did you feed them?
2. what things did you feed them first, rice ceral, but then what?
3. any grand words of wisdom so that I don't make huge mistakes

We tried rice cereal briefly at around 6 months with my daughter, but she wouldn't touch the stuff and we quickly moved on to peas and squash. With my son we pretty much skipped the baby food phase. He didn't care for it and spoon feeding was a pain. Occasionally I would give him a spoon and a little bowl of baby food and let him play with it. If any got in his mouth, fine, and if not, fine. He started with rice crispies and cheerios at around 8 months when he could pick them up and feed himself. Other things he liked were small pieces of banana, avocado, and cooked sweet potato.

I don't really have any grand words of wisdom :smile: but I think it's important to remember that breastmilk or formula is a baby's primary source of nutrition during the entire first year. Solids foods help your baby get used to new flavors and textures, but nutritionally they're not that important until later. So there's no need to worry if your baby doesn't show a lot of interest in eating solids (although some babies eat a LOT, right from the beginning!).

Going back to sleeping through the night... Neither of my kids slept throught the night until they were around three, but once they started they slept great. Nothing wakes them up; they even sleep through thunderstorms and hurricanes. Now I'm the only one who doesn't sleep through the night!

Yay more people! Welcome Clarie and Jelly. :)

Peyton was born on the 23rd.

Welcome chelly! You are #16!

Thanks for the welcome! Hubby's bday (as well as his brother's - they are exactly 2 yrs apart) is Aug 23rd. Also, we had considered naming our son Peyton. It's a great name. :)

I realize that I was the last one to post, but since it has been a day . . . I thought I'd put a question out there for the experience parents . . . feeding your baby "real" food:
1. what age did you feed them?
2. what things did you feed them first, rice ceral, but then what?
3. any grand words of wisdom so that I don't make huge mistakes

Thanks!

Wyatt was 4 1/2 months when the Dr told us to go ahead and give cereal w/formula a try to see how he liked it and to practice swallowing food. The little guy loved it right away and only spit it out a couple of times before he mastered swallowing. After that we got the ok to mix a little bit of fruit/veggies in w/the cereal, and at 6 months the Dr told us to go ahead w/baby food. We pretty much bought 1 of everything until we found the things he liked, and after a couple of weeks we would try to reintroduce the foods he had snubbed before.

He's a picky eater now. He went through a phase where he would only eat veggies, then a phase where he'd only eat bread. He seems to be getting out of that and getting back on track with eating everything.

He'd eat tons of sweet foods if he could, but I think 1 thing that has been a huge help is that we don't give him anything but "real" food. No candy, soda, cookies, chips....no junk of any kind. The closest thing to junk he's had is a little bit of cake and ice cream on his 1st bday (we can't completely deprive him), and a couple of fig newtons. The most difficult part of our choosing to feed him this way is that our families don't agree..."A little sip of Coke won't hurt anyone"........whatever.

It's been so long since I've discussed the selection of formula, consistency of rice cereal and favorite first fruits. Now I'm just trying to find a way to keep enough cheese, apples in the refrigerator to satisfy the hunger of a young man!

I do recall using a similar technique to have my son eat the cereal and vegetables first, and then have some fruit. IOf the vegetables, he loved sweet potatoes most, likely due to a sweeter flavor; I think it was the peas that reviled him. He loved to have a small dollop of peaches on his spoon of rice cereal. He seemed to have a knack for keeping the fruits in his mouth, but finding a way to take in only 10% of the nasty vegetables! His favorite dessert was "blueberry buckle";, though I have no idea what a buckle is other than an engineering implement to keep a strap of leather tied to your waist. And based on the looks and smell, I know why he never liked the jarred beef!

I apologize for not providing any helpful strategies, as mine are locked deep within the crevices of my brain having occured so many years ago. But thanks for allowing me to reminisce and share those moments in a more general way!

-Mang

Thanks for the welcome, chellly!



He'd eat tons of sweet foods if he could, but I think 1 thing that has been a huge help is that we don't give him anything but "real" food. No candy, soda, cookies, chips....no junk of any kind. The closest thing to junk he's had is a little bit of cake and ice cream on his 1st bday (we can't completely deprive him), and a couple of fig newtons. The most difficult part of our choosing to feed him this way is that our families don't agree..."A little sip of Coke won't hurt anyone"........whatever.

We don't do so well with avoiding junk, I'm afraid, but I have such a sweet tooth that I was determined to give my kids a better start, at least. I promised myself when my daughter was born that her first sweet food would be the cake on her first birthday. I think it helped... She didn't eat the cake, and on her second birthday she still didn't eat the cake, and had green beans instead. She likes desserts now, but can take them or leave them.

Tried the same strategy with my son, not quite as successfully. But even he is less tempted by sweets than I am. :smile:

Hello All! Just read through all 9 pages of the thread. *phew!* I would like to join, too, please!

I have 3 kids. My son is 8 and my two daughters are 6 1/2 and 2 1/2.

As far as sleeping goes, I learned from experience. I was so in love with my son when he was born I would pick him up while he was sleeping just to hold him and rock him. He was rocked to sleep for every nap and at bedtime. This resulted in his having to be rocked to sleep in order to fall asleep. Which got old and exhausting after a while. Especially since I got pregnant with his sister when he was a year old! It's not easy rocking a toddler with that belly, lol! With the girls, I started putting them in the crib - awake - from the day we came home from the hospital. My older daughter was so-so with that. But the youngest....honest to God, she's been sleeping through the night, putting herself to sleep, since she was 4 or 5 weeks old. Now that she's 2 1/2, I keep thinking she's going to be ready to leave the crib, but she loves it! She'll sing herself to sleep, look at books (her favorite thing) until she nods off.

The older 2 (21 months apart) went through this stage where they'd watch the same bedtime video each night and fall asleep on the couch, then we'd carry them to bed. When I got pregnant with the baby, we ended that cycle in preparation. ROUTINE is your friend. Jammies, brush, prayers, book or 2, hugs and kisses, and that's it. It took some time, but now it's just the way it is. My parents were out for a visit this past week and could not believe how easy bedtime is for us! They kept comparing my kids to my nieces and nephews back home. Made me proud.

I always started foods around 5 or 6 months. Rice cereal, then veggies, then fruit. I always introduced all the veggies before I started on fruit because I've heard that babies can get a sweet tooth and refuse the veggies. Worked for me. And all 3 LOVE veggies now. You have no idea how much broccoli I have to steam whenever I make it, it's their absolute favorite, lol!

I have kids close in age (21 months apart) and far apart (4 and 6 years older than the youngest). Both have their advantages and downfalls. With close together you go through everything boom, boom. Then it's over. Yes, it's hard with so many diapers, etc., but they can play with the same toys and are into the same things. Far apart, the older ones are a big help! But, you have to watch out for little bitty toys like legos and Barbie shoes, lol. There's no perfect time.You just make it work.

OK GUYS... I NEED SOME HELP!! I know that some of you are stay at home mom's!! Anyway, I really don't want to leave my baby and go back to work!! My hubby just wants me to make a few hundred bucks a month.. nothing big!! I was just wondering if anyone knew of something I could do in my own home!! I've check out some things online, but I am soooo skeptical... anyone have any tried and true ways?? I really need this!! I am desperate! If anyone has any way to help me, could you please send me a private message about it?? HELP ME:) I need REAL help from REAL stay at home workers!! THANKS GUYS... I thought this would be the best place for some help:)

Welcome jellyfrog #18 and goddessblue #19! We are glad to have more parents who are willing to brag and talk about their little people!
aydan's mommy: I am working mom myself, but only because I absolutely have to! It would be great BUT EXHAUSTING to be able to stay at home! I have a cousin who tutors people on-line and makes really good money. But I'm not sure how she got the gig!

Peyton and I are off for a check-up today and . . . unfortunately more shots! I hate when she has to have shots! Her little face is so sad. . . :(

It is so hard having to work when you have little ones! My first 4 older kids I was able to be at home with but I worked part time in the evenings. That worked out great even tho I didn't see my husband much. My current situation is different...I work days and my 3yr old goes to daycare. He has gone since he was 6 weeks old and doesn't know any different. Even tho it is hard for me he loves it. He is learning so much and loves playing with his friends. I know my oldest kids loved the fact that their mommy was home with them but I think my youngest will do just fine. He is learning things, like social skills that my oldest didn't learn until they were older. I guess there are pros and cons for everything.

I really don't remember much about the feeding stuff with my oldest (21, 18, 16, 13) but my 3yr old..he loved his cereal and sweet veggies like sweet potatoes and squash. He HATED the greens so I stopped even trying. As he got older he loved, still does but is more picky now, green beans. When he was 8 months old, no teeth mind you, he started taking real people food away from his daycare buddies so the daycare teachers asked if I minded if he started on people food and I said go ahead and that was that for baby food. He just gummed everything!

I've really enjoyed this new group. I don't always post but read it every day!

Yeah, LOST-devotee parents group! I'm so in!

I have a 13-year old daughter, an 11-year old son, and a 3-year old daughter.
They are my treasured blessings from above!

I always have to record LOST because I have a 5-year old and under class that I started recently on Wednesdays at church. I get home around 9pm and my 3 year old insists that she stay up late with the older kids to watch our recordings of LOST. I prefer to preview before I let her watch because of episodes like last weeks. I know that violence is everywhere and I can't always protect her from what she may see, but I want to make sure that she knows that it's just t.v. and not okay.

I want to send a SHOUT OUT to all the single parents:biggrin: especially, it's tuff but it's always nice to get that extra vote of confidence and appreciation for all you do.

Blessings to all!

Everybody give a big welcome to spirit4ever who is #20! I agree that all the single parents out there deserve (and probably need) a big shout out! I don't know how anyone could do it alone!

My baby got shots yesterday and woke up last night SCREAMING! She screamed for a good 1/2 hour. It was so sad. Today, my husband tells me, she is happy as a clam. He's off today so it is a daddy day. I am stuck at work. :(

I am a mom of 2, ages 6 and 3. They are a handful, but they are my life. I am a working mom (redundant, I know) so they spend most of their time with Dad which is ok, it just means I get their full attention when I get home. As far as getting them to sleep, it's still a challenge. I wish I could offer some advice but.......... Anyhow I'm looking forward to being part of the club and exchanging some great stories.

Recently my daughter told her brother some stories about monsters and ghosts, so he keeps hearing noises and thinks the house is haunted (he's 4). He insists on staying right next to me all the time... I can't even leave the room for a second to get something without him shrieking. I assume this will pass soon; he went through a similar phase at 2 and it didn't last too long.

Anyway, today he wanted me to get his favorite pajamas out of the dryer, and I just wanted to run down and get them, but he started whining and following me, and well, I'd about had it by this time. I told him to stop following me and stay upstairs or I wouldn't get them. I sounded kind of like Ethan...

"If you do not stop following me, I will not get your monkey jammies!"

I feel bad. I really need more patience.

Jellyfrog...get a spray bottle and fill it with water and add a couple of drops of food coloring. Tell your son it's "Monster & Ghost Spray." Ask him where they are and let hiim spray them away. Another alternative is to tell him that monsters and ghosts are afraid of mommies, and you can spritz some of your perfume. Worked for me when we went through those stages with the older ones!! We had to spray the closet and under the bed for a while, lol.

Hey, that's a fantastic idea! I'll give it a try. Our carpet may get pretty damp though. :biggrin:

Yup, it probably will, lol!! I told my husband I was scared we were gonna get mold after a while. :lol: But just a couple of spritzes do the trick! Let me know if it works!!

You can also get a can of airfreshener.... it wont make everything wet... and it smells good! Just creat a lable.. and paste it on! ( I saw it on Dr.Phil... I can't take credit)

Stefanie

You people are genius! I am so impressed with the quick and brilliant thinking! Welcome Sdobiak. You are #21

Ditto on the brilliance! Maybe I need to add Dr. Phil to my tivo. I'm going to file all of this info away for a rainy day...I'm sure I'm going to need it.

I was at the grocery store yesterday and found these bars of soap with a mesh thing around them for toddlers little hands. Can't remember what they called it. something along the lines of grippy soap. It's a mesh grippy thing around the soap with holes in it to allow soap /bubbles thru. I believe their were several brands. One was Johnson N Johnson. Just wondering if anyone has tried them and how well do they work? How old is your child(ren) that use it? Thanks.

Hey jellybean!

I think you're referring to "Johnson's Buddies", as a soap product from J&J. It's a soft cloth, mesh-covered bar of soap that lathers incredibly well and won't slip in grip. My son is 9, but has delayed/reduced OT skills, and this is perfect for him to use.

Unfortunately, I don't have experience with this product and younger children who tend to get more in their eyes or mouths; I don't know whether this has a high irritation coefficient like typical soap.

-Mang

So, how do you convince your 6 month old to occasionally play by themselves?

Hello Proud Parents!!!!

jellybean1,
I love Johnson's Kids Super Sudzer soap! My daughter is 3 (4 in one month) and she loves to use it. I couldn't get her interested in bar soap until we tried those out a year ago. Watermelon is her favorite scent. They are just the right size for little hands too.
I have to admit, I had fun showing her how to make it lather up. I had to buy one for my 11 and 13 year old because they thought they were "tight".

notlost...
what kinds of things have you tried so far?

jellybean1,
I love Johnson's Kids Super Sudzer soap! My daughter is 3 (4 in one month) and she loves to use it. I couldn't get her interested in bar soap until we tried those out a year ago. Watermelon is her favorite scent. They are just the right size for little hands too.
I have to admit, I had fun showing her how to make it lather up. I had to buy one for my 11 and 13 year old because they thought they were "tight".


Indeed, Super Sudzers too! These are one and the same as the "Buddies", except for the super k3wl scents with the Sudzers, vs. the standard scent from the "Buddies". I believe the Sudzers come in a 3-pack, and the Buddies are individual boxes.

l'il Mang loves the watermelon most, but one store mostly carries the :Buddies" version. They really lather up well.

-Mang

Well, I try leaving her with her toys and not running to her each time she fusses, but usually she gets louder and fussier until I give in. She's smart.

You have to give her time to learn to amuse herself. Have you tried any videos while she's playing with toys? The Baby Einsteins are wonderful for your daughter's age. My kids loved those. Or play music for her while she's with her toys. Something to occupy both sides of her brain at the same time.

You could also try just being in the same room with her for a while, but not actively playing with her. Set her up with her toys and go sit and read a book. When she comes to you, tell her that Mommy's need quiet time, too, and she needs to play. It takes a while, but if you don't give in, and she sees that you are there, sooner or later it'll sink in that Mom's not being fun right now, lol.

PS I was one of those people who said that I would never use videos to occupy my kids - before I had kids. :rolleyes: Videos can be a life saver!!! As much as I hate Barney, he and Sesame Street, Nick Jr., Disney and Baby Einstein are wonderful. :wub: I would have NO sanity if we didn't have so many videos. Honestly.

PS I was one of those people who said that I would never use videos to occupy my kids - before I had kids. :rolleyes: Videos can be a life saver!!! As much as I hate Barney, he and Sesame Street, Nick Jr., Disney and Baby Einstein are wonderful. :wub: I would have NO sanity if we didn't have so many videos. Honestly.

Amen to that! Noggin is my friend. My son loves it. I still refuse to let him watch Barney, cuz he just annoys me. Oh, and PBS Sprout is great too. His favorite is Sesame Street and they show it on there several times a day.

Amen to that! Noggin is my friend. My son loves it. I still refuse to let him watch Barney, cuz he just annoys me. Oh, and PBS Sprout is great too. His favorite is Sesame Street and they show it on there several times a day. We just discovered Sprout a month or so ago!! It's awesome!!!

PBS has some awesome shows for kids. Most cable shows for kids seem mostly senseless compared to what PBS has to offer. I have to admit that I'm not crazy about Barney either, and the Tellitubies use to freak me out a little too. I'm okay with the Tellitubbies now.

notlost, justexploring
you should keep her close to you, she is still young and still requires that closeness. goddessblue made some very good suggestions. It's very hard for babies to disattach themselves from what comforts them and makes them feel safe. Likewise, it's hard for parents to let and listen to thier little ones fuss. Fussing for a minute may seem like 10 minutes. If you've already seen to her nurturing and entertainment...maybe she just needs to fuss. It's hard not to feel guilty about letting them do so, I know, but I think its necessary. If they get thier way all the time it becomes a chain of events and suddenly they're in junior high expecting everything and they know what fits work that will make you break.

Hi everyone...just wanted to let you guys know of a website that sells Lost apparel for kids...adults too. They have lots of neat stuff. It's cafepress.com

You have to give her time to learn to amuse herself.
I think it is something they just have to learn on their own. Every one has made great suggestions. I agree. My daughter didn't start to play on her own until around 9 months. She likes Blues Clues. She didn't really start getting into learning videos until about 22 months. When she had the patients to sit and watch it and not wander. I think videos are ok as long as they have a learning value to them. I found my daughter counting to 10 one day while watching sesame Street at 23 months!!

Hi everyone...just wanted to let you guys know of a website that sells Lost apparel for kids...adults too. They have lots of neat stuff. It's cafepress.com

Awsome! Thanks.

I have two kids sign me up

notlost, if part of your concern is that you occasionally need to have your hands free to get things done, another option might be to use a baby carrier of some kind. When my daughter was 6 months old she would entertain herself happily with toys while I did other things, as long as she could see me. My son, on the other hand, had a much higher need for physical contact, and I carried him in a sling most of the time until he was ready for more independence. He certainly learned to entertain himself, but it took a little longer than my daughter. He was probably around 9 months old.

There are all kinds of baby carriers. We tried a a few; the one I liked best was the Maya Wrap sling. It's extremely versatile -- you can carry your baby in a wide variety of positions, depending on their age and preferences, and the fabric is so breathable that my baby didn't get too hot in it, even in the summer when it was really hot and humid. And you can use it up to 35 lbs, so it's handy for toddlers too.

Hanso Founder welcome! You are #22!

Thanks for all the good advice. I was just asking because I do occasionally need to get something done. She actually does enjoy watching Baby Einstein. We found the entire series (on VHS but hey it was cheap) at one of those recycle the baby stuff stores. We got every video for 19 bucks!
I also was worried about being over-indulgent. I want her to be confident and independent. I know that she is still really young -- but before you know it she's in junior high and then . . . anywho, thanks for the ideas!

Hanso Founder welcome! You are #22!

Thanks for all the good advice. I was just asking because I do occasionally need to get something done. She actually does enjoy watching Baby Einstein. We found the entire series (on VHS but hey it was cheap) at one of those recycle the baby stuff stores. We got every video for 19 bucks!
I also was worried about being over-indulgent. I want her to be confident and independent. I know that she is still really young -- but before you know it she's in junior high and then . . . anywho, thanks for the ideas!
I feel very sorry for one of my very good friends, she tried the whole video thing, and her son is now 21/2 and he can't NOT have a VV (what he calls them) on! He loves his video's TOO MUCH!! :) My advice is this: My son is clingy... too clingy.. and when I need to get something done, like do the laundry, or the dishes, I just put up the baby gate! Let them cry! The baby gate allows you to still peer out and see your child, and your child is still able to see you! My son cried.. and cried.. and cried.. but after a few minutes he knew I wasn't paying attention... and he started playing with his toys! It is hard at first to ingore your baby, but you kinda just have to sometimes! After doing this for several days, my son got the hint, and he will now go into his bedroom and play with his toys on his own. He will bring a toy to where I am working and play at my feet, and for the most part, not bother me too much! Of course you need to limit this time, and smother them with kisses the rest of the time!:) I hope this helps! I just would hate to see your child get addicted to videos!

Stefanie




Now.. I need some advice! I have a son who is 18 months. He loves his bottle. I JUST got him off of his bottle without much problem. He now uses a sippy cup! Buttttt.. this is my problem, he still needs it to fall asleep! It bugs me that I can't get him to just go to sleep on his own without the milk! Any suggestions on how to get him to just sleep on his own? I would leave him in his crib to cry, but he will go hours and not fall asleep, and now he has learned how to crawl out of his crib, so keeping in place is another problem!! HELP

I have the same problem w/my 18 mo old. And the sad part is, he didn't always need his bottle. It just happened. What I have been doing lately to try to break him of it (as well as not waste too much milk) is giving him a cup with just a little bit of water in it. He still has that security he needs (he needs his cup and his teddy bear). Slowly but surely I'll start getting rid of that too, but we're off to a good start so far. (I just started this past weekend, so it's only been a couple of days).

I am ALREADY worried about the binky/bottle/sippy cup thing. My baby falls asleep much easier with the binky in, but I don't want her to get addicted. But I also want her to get some sleep.

By the way, just being near and letting her play by herself has worked really well. Occasionaly I can even get up and put a load of laundry in the wash and she doesn't even notice!

My son loved his binkie.. and one day I just took them all away... hid them:-D He didn't even really bug me for it! It was hard a few nights to get him to go to sleep without it.. but finally he would! Now of course, my son is addicted to have his sippy cup when he goes to bed! :( I just laid him down actually... and he needed his sippy.. and his blankie.. and his panda! Shesh... what should I do?

It's a good thing kids are so sweet and adorable! Would you really put up with a husband who demanded to be fed every two hours?

You should try 'Secrets of the Baby Whisperer' by Tracy Hogg (or see www.thebabywhisperer.com) - she talks about this sort of thing, where they need certain props to sleep - my own 18 month old used to breastfeed to sleep & wouldn't go to sleep any other way. She calls it accidental parenting - where we've created the link in their minds with the comfort of drinking with the process of going to sleep, but now we want to break that connection and the little ones don't get why...They do a pick up put down system whereby you don't give them whatever it is (ie their cup / bottle) but put them down to sleep, and if they get upset you pick them up for a quick cuddle and reassure them it's all okay, and then put them back down. Eventually they get the idea - oh, mummy wants me to be laying down & not crying - and eventually they go to sleep without whatever it was they wanted before. It takes a few days to a week depending on how ingrained it is (it took us 3 days, when he was about 8, 9 months), and it works really well, with no pain on mummy or baby's side. My little boy now goes to sleep exactly as we want him to - all by himself quite happily, and anyone can put him down. It's great!

Wow, that was a long post! Sorry - it's just that I've been there and this system *really* saved my sanity, and I've got such a good little boy now! :smile: I highly recommend it.

Hey thanks for the info! Just this week my husband and I have begun imposing a bed time on our daughter and it really is working. I think she feels more secure too, having a schedule to follow.

Yeah same here. I used to kind of giggle and roll my eyes when people would tell me that I needed to put my son on a schedule. Once we fell in to a schedule (just out of habit) it was amazing how much easier things were. My sister has an infant now so I have been passing on all of this knowledge (my own and things I pick up from friends and online) to her. It has made her life much easier.

Yeah same here. I used to kind of giggle and roll my eyes when people would tell me that I needed to put my son on a schedule. Once we fell in to a schedule (just out of habit) it was amazing how much easier things were. My sister has an infant now so I have been passing on all of this knowledge (my own and things I pick up from friends and online) to her. It has made her life much easier.
Routine is important -- it's predictable, comforting, and helps everyone feel a little more in control. But to me there's a difference between finding the routine that works for you, like you did, and "putting your baby on a schedule". I had a doctor tell me once that I should put my baby on a three hour feeding schedule, because nursing more often than that would be too hard on me. Fortunately it was my second baby, and I already knew that there was a reason my babies needed to nurse every two hours, and so I was perfectly comfortable disregarding her lousy advice. I couldn't figure out why she thought listening to my hungry baby cry for an extra hour would be easier on me than just snuggling up with my baby and nursing.

Routine is especially important at bedtime! And it works even better, I discovered, if you tailor it to your child's natural rhythms. No amount of routine in the world was going to make my son go to sleep at 8pm, or even 9pm, until he stopped taking naps.

Everyone keeps talking about the Baby Whisperer book. I guess I better read it! So, is anyone else a bit horrified about the way that Claire is always yanking Aaron (well, really the doll) around? Talk about bad parenting!

. . . walks in . . . finds room empy . . . sadly leaves

awww don't be sad. it's just a slow time on the lage.

QUESTION!!! Could anyone give me advice on flying with a baby? I have a 18 month old and we are flying across the US to visit grandparents!! We would have bought him a seat, but the tickets were sooooo expensive. Anyway, so baby will be on my lap for 6-8 hours!! Any advice!???

Stefanie

Ok. I have a question for the parents of children past the terrible 2 stage. When will it be over?!:wacko: I'm starting to go crazy! She's now saying to me, "No no". She goes in the naughty chair after that. She hates to sit in that. And she whines all the time. She's never happy. Wants everything her way, and throws a temper tantrum when she doesn't get it. She goes in the naughty chair again. I know the chair is working, cuz she hates to go in it, and she can't get out until she stops crying and I tell her what she did wrong. She is 27 months and understands very well. Any suggestions? Thanks.
adydansmom, sorry, never flown with my daughter before.

QUESTION!!! Could anyone give me advice on flying with a baby? I have a 18 month old and we are flying across the US to visit grandparents!! We would have bought him a seat, but the tickets were sooooo expensive. Anyway, so baby will be on my lap for 6-8 hours!! Any advice!???

Stefanie

Hey Stef, I've flown with my kids lots of times. Only difference here is we always got them their own seat. Does your child like the baby carrier? I've seen women wear their baby for the flight and it worked well. Facing out, they can look at books, eat and play. Facing you, they can snuggle up and sleep. The airplane engines will probably lull your son to sleep during the flight, as well. My kids usually slept a lot during flights at that age. Buy a couple of new books and toys etc. and put them in the baby bag for the flight. (Keep them a secret before the flight so that they are new, though!) Be sure to have his favorite lovey (teddy, blanket, etc), a change of clothes and lots of wipes. Make sure to have lots of different snacky stuff, juice, milk/formula, etc. (Pretzels, cheerios, grahams, etc.)

We flew with all 3 kids last summer and our youngest was almost 2. For the first time, we had a portable DVD player and a laptop. If you have either of these things I HIGHLY recommend bringing them to play a movie. The kids watched The Incredibles the whole flight.

Two more words of caution:

1. I got pulled out of line randomly to be searched. I had like 5 things of hand sanitizer in the diaper bag and my purse. (I was flying with 3 kids!!) Apparantly hand sanitizer contains something that's in bombs, lol. :rolleyes:

2. DO NOT feed your son bananas and/or raisens the morning of the flight or bring these along as snacks. :shock: Believe me, I know!!

Ok. I have a question for the parents of children past the terrible 2 stage. When will it be over?!:wacko: I'm starting to go crazy! She's now saying to me, "No no". She goes in the naughty chair after that. She hates to sit in that. And she whines all the time. She's never happy. Wants everything her way, and throws a temper tantrum when she doesn't get it. She goes in the naughty chair again. I know the chair is working, cuz she hates to go in it, and she can't get out until she stops crying and I tell her what she did wrong. She is 27 months and understands very well. Any suggestions? Thanks.
adydansmom, sorry, never flown with my daughter before.

Jellybean, I wish I could help you. I feel for you. My older daughter is 6 1/2 and is finally getting out of the tantrum stage. My other kids aren't like her in this way. It's just something unique to her personality. But I truly, truly know what you are going through. Just hang in there.

Jellybean, I had a couple of tantrum throwers and what worked best for me was to just ignore it while it's happening. If you're in public, remove your child gently from where you are and go back to the car. Sit said child in carseat, get in yourself and just wait it out without speaking. At home, mine would throw themselves down on the floor. I just stepped over them while they hollered and went about my housework. It took 3 days and a stiff upper lip, but it worked. Lots of hugs and kisses when they stop yelling and speak with the "inside" voice. No whining. Whining makes Mommy deaf.(wink,wink) Good luck!

My baby is still too little for the terrible two's but I have a funny story about tantrums. One of my friends' Mom was hysterical and very creative with child raising. She had a daughter who was famous for tantrums and WAY TOO OLD to still be throwing them. So, one time they were at Macys and baby girl started her usual fit. She screamed and stomped and hollared and threw herself on the ground. Mom, calmly took off her jacket and laid it on the counter with her purse and threw herself on the ground and kicked and screamed. Baby girl was stunned and became instantally silent. After a bit Mom said, "Are you finished?" Baby girl could only nod her head. Mom said, "Good, me too. Let's shop." When she got up off the floor Moms all around her started clapping.
It doesn't help you, but at least it was an entertaining story. :)

Hi everyone!

Well a few of my 5 kids had tantrums and I ignored them also..it does work! I remember leaving my daughter on the floor kicking and screaming in the grocery store and I walked away..well just around the corner and after peeking at her she came running to me yelling Mommy Mommy! And now when my 3yr old (seems they usually stop right when they are 3) whines ( I HATE whining) I tell him I won't listen to him at all until he stops whining. It usually works, until the next time he whines!

I have flown with little kids too and I always had a bottle/pacifier for them to suck for their ears. Also new toys/books that they didn't have to keep them occupied. They should give you seats by the doors, or wherever the leg room is wider so there is more room for them to play.

Good luck!

Hi everyone!

Well a few of my 5 kids had tantrums and I ignored them also..it does work! I remember leaving my daughter on the floor kicking and screaming in the grocery store and I walked away..well just around the corner and after peeking at her she came running to me yelling Mommy Mommy! And now when my 3yr old (seems they usually stop right when they are 3) whines ( I HATE whining) I tell him I won't listen to him at all until he stops whining. It usually works, until the next time he whines!

I have flown with little kids too and I always had a bottle/pacifier for them to suck for their ears. Also new toys/books that they didn't have to keep them occupied. They should give you seats by the doors, or wherever the leg room is wider so there is more room for them to play.

Good luck!

Ohhhhh...I forgot about that! VERY good advice lostinsandwich!! Make sure your baby is nursing/having a bottle or cup/pacifier during landing and take-off to avoide the ear popping!!

notlost, funny story. Thanks for sharing that. My husband and I are now starting to ignore her. My husband has even whined like her, but she didn't seem to be aware of how stupid it looked. Maybe to young to realize that. But her naughty chair is in another room, so when she goes in it she can't see us. And if she starts to act up, I warn her that she'll go in the naughty chair if she doesn't behave. Just will have to keep with it, and hope by the time the 2nd one is here, she'll have grown out of it. We're planning on having another one in Feb/ Mar next year. If all goes right. Thanks.

I had a cousin who was horrible for throwing tantrums... and it made me sooo mad that his mom let him... (this was way before I realized how hard it was to make them stop) But anyway, I did basically the same thing! He started screaming his head off because his mom wouldn't let him have something so I threw myself on the floor and did exactly what he was doing! He looked at me like I was the wierdest person ever and he stopped!! After that I explained that he doesn't get what he wants when he acts like that, and that on top of not getting what he wants, it only makes him look stupid! I think he got it! He didn't fuss the rest of the day! Of course I am sure that once he got home he didn't change for his mom, but it worked for me! :) :)

Stefanie

Add me I got two beautiful cuties....

Welcome Jess42 you are number 23!

wow, 23, that is a lucky number! :)

Awesome idea, a parents thread. I am so glad I stumbled on this. I am a proud papa of 2. My daughter is 3 and my son is 1. Sign me up, please.

You are #24. Welcome!

How cool is that? I'm #24 into this group, that also happens to be the name of my other favorite show.

I have intentionally not watched 24 because I just don't have the strength to get addicted to another show!

I gave my son his first haircut today!!!! Boy was that an adventure! Couldn't get the boy to hold still, until I turned on Spongebob. Once I turned on Spongebob that held his attention quite well and helped me to not cut his ear or anything.
100%
I have intentionally not watched 24 because I just don't have the strength to get addicted to another show!

LOL Thats exactly what I said when Lost started. I was hooked on 24 long before Lost came along, then I Netflixed the first season of Lost and was hooked. Its the main reason I bought a Tivo, in the event that I don't get to watch it when its on I can catch up on the weekends.

I'm sort of enamoured with the idea of tivo, but our budget is small!

Hi every one! I just want to tell every one about an amazing wonderful product. Pampers bibsters. They're great for when you go out, and don't want to bring home a stinking wet and dirty bib that will stink up the diaper bag. They are biodegradable, so no worries on the environment. Easy and care free. My daughter is past the bib stage, but I just wanted to tell every one how great and time saving they can be in our busy lives if you need the help.
Have a great day!
J

My mom is constantally telling me how good I have it -- they've got so MANY clever products for babies now days!

My mom is constantally telling me how good I have it -- they've got so MANY clever products for babies now days!
Yeah, even in 2 years since my daughter was born, I've seen new stuff come out. Good thing I want 2 more. I was raised on cloth diapers. The old kind that you have to fold and use safety pins. Can you imagine?!
That reminds me, I was wondering if anyone has used the new version of cloth diapers, and how do you like them? I've seen many different types and bands, and was thinking about trying that route with my next one. Any suggestions?
Thanks.
J

What new version of cloth diapers? Hey, maybe everybody should mention their favorite baby tool or toy! (I'll get all kinds of good information that way!)

These diapers are washable versions of the disposibles. They have snaps or velcro. You can get inserts for them for when they sleep. Helps to hold more. Washable of course. Come in various sizes. You can find some at www.onestepahead.com (http://www.onestepahead.com). Well, I saw them there a year ago. I'm sure they still have some. Any one use them?

QUESTION!!! Could anyone give me advice on flying with a baby? I have a 18 month old and we are flying across the US to visit grandparents!! We would have bought him a seat, but the tickets were sooooo expensive. Anyway, so baby will be on my lap for 6-8 hours!! Any advice!???

Stefanie

If all else fails, Tylenol will be your best friend! My daughter would wail on landings, I don't know if it was her ears or she just didn't like landings. Anyways on our last couple of trips I gave her some Tylenol about an hour and a half before landing she slept right through.
100%
Ok. I have a question for the parents of children past the terrible 2 stage. When will it be over?!:wacko: I'm starting to go crazy! She's now saying to me, "No no". She goes in the naughty chair after that. She hates to sit in that. And she whines all the time. She's never happy. Wants everything her way, and throws a temper tantrum when she doesn't get it. She goes in the naughty chair again. I know the chair is working, cuz she hates to go in it, and she can't get out until she stops crying and I tell her what she did wrong. She is 27 months and understands very well. Any suggestions? Thanks.
adydansmom, sorry, never flown with my daughter before.

Well if my daughter is any indication 2 is the least of your worries. She was great as a 2 yr. old she didn't hit her tantrum stride until she turned 3. And yes I also agree ignoring it is the best way to go. They are only throwing the tantrum to get attention, the earlier they realize throwing a tantrum is not going to get them attention the better off everybody will be.

Ok I know the subject has changed a bit (by the way, I checked out the cloth diapers link – very cool stuff they have nowadays).

On the subject of tantrums – my son has them but he doesn’t wail and scream like some. He head butts things. Or throws himself on the floor and slams the back of his head on the floor. Ugh!!!!

These diapers are washable versions of the disposibles. They have snaps or velcro. You can get inserts for them for when they sleep. Helps to hold more. Washable of course. Come in various sizes. You can find some at www.onestepahead.com (http://www.onestepahead.com). Well, I saw them there a year ago. I'm sure they still have some. Any one use them? I haven't used them, but I know lots of moms who cloth diaper. They say the all-in-ones are great, especially for babysitters and others who might be intimidated by cloth diapers. The drawback is that they take a long time to dry because they're so thick.

Most of my friends use pocket diapers (Fuzzi Bunz). I'll see if I can find a link for them... They're a lot like the all-in-ones, but they come apart so they dry more quickly. They have a waterproof cover and a soft lining, which form the pocket, and you stuff them with a special liner or prefold diaper or something else -- one of my friends gets big packs of cheap washcloths and uses them in the pocket, or else micro terry cloths that are used for washing cars (she says they're incredibly absorbent and much lighter weight than cloth diapers, and cheaper).

On the subject of tantrums – my son has them but he doesn’t wail and scream like some. He head butts things. Or throws himself on the floor and slams the back of his head on the floor. Ugh!!!!
YEAH! My daughter does that too! OK. So I know she's not the only one that is that way. Sometimes I would wonder. I've heard other parents that deal with that too. What's that all about?! Can't control their anger maybe? I normally try to redirect her anger when she does that.
J

I've heard that part of tantrums is a frustration with an inability to communicate their needs and feelings

YEAH! My daughter does that too! OK. So I know she's not the only one that is that way. Sometimes I would wonder. I've heard other parents that deal with that too. What's that all about?! Can't control their anger maybe? I normally try to redirect her anger when she does that.
J

I’m so glad we’re not alone in this either. I have never seen a little person throw a fit this way, so it kind of scared me when he started doing it. I’ve noticed lately he will bang his head, but not as hard as he used to because he’s starting to understand that it hurts. So he’ll bang a little bit and then look at us to see if we are paying attention. If we ignore him he kinda wimpers a little bit and then goes on his merry way. If we are looking at him or talk to him after he does it is when he starts crying. I know people see the bruises on his head and wonder what on earth we are doing to the child. He’s really fair skinned so any little bruise shows up.

He says a few words, but he knows how to communicate what he wants. He’s big on pointing.

I had just heard it is partly do with an inability to deal with and express strong emotions. The emotions or desires overwhelm a child and so they can't clearly express it. Of course, this is just something I read as an educator. My daughter is only about 7 months old and hasn't thrown a tantrum yet. But now that I'm getting to know her personality --- it is just a matter of time! I don't she'll do anything in have measures!

I had just heard it is partly do with an inability to deal with and express strong emotions. The emotions or desires overwhelm a child and so they can't clearly express it. Of course, this is just something I read as an educator. My daughter is only about 7 months old and hasn't thrown a tantrum yet. But now that I'm getting to know her personality --- it is just a matter of time! I don't she'll do anything in have measures!
That makes so much sense. Can't even imagine what it would be like to not be able to say what you feel or want. Even though we were their once. I'm trying to talk to my daughter when she gets frustrated. I just kneel down by her and say, "what do you want?" or "you have to do this because.." It seems to help. She also gets frustrated when she's trying to put a shoe on, and it doesn't go on well. (She has a shoe fetish) I tell her she can ask mommy for help.

She's starting her shoe fettish young. I wonder how many she'll have by the time she's our age!

Alright, where is everybody? I hate it when there's a rerun -- the boards get kind of empty and sad.

I'm here! I'm here!
Just a comment... I'm having my daughters pictures taken today with her cousin. The cousin is 8 months. My daughter is 2. That aught to be fun.
Any one have any funny or embarrassing comments about their children when having pics taken? I'd love to hear some.

HELP.....Question.....
I hope someone has a answer, or at least some advice. My daughter will not stay dressed!!! Is this just a 3 yr. old phase thing or what? She never really had a problem with clothes before, but lately I can't keep any on her. Just one example, last night before going to bed myself I always go and check on the kids, I go into my daughters room and the p.j.'s I put her to bed in are now being worn by her big Winnie the Pooh stuffed animal. Even her underwear! She was sleeping totally in the buff! This is not the first instance just one of many examples. Fortunately this has just been an issue at home, it hasn't spilled out into daycare or when we are out and about. I just want to get her outta this stage real quick so it doesn't start happening at daycare or when we are out. Any advice?
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I'm here! I'm here!
Just a comment... I'm having my daughters pictures taken today with her cousin. The cousin is 8 months. My daughter is 2. That aught to be fun.
Any one have any funny or embarrassing comments about their children when having pics taken? I'd love to hear some.

Well the first time I tried to get pictures of my daughter and son together was fun. My daughter is 3 and my son is 1, she was not happy at all about having her brother in the pic with her. She was so used to getting pics by herself, and she is a total ham! If she sees a camera she wants a picture taken of her. Anyways long story short she ended up giving the boy a fat lip!!! She socked him right in the mouth. Boy did she get in trouble! She has calmed down since and likes to take pics with him now, and alot of other things, I think at that time she was still just getting used to not being the only child anymore. Anyways good luck with your pics today, I'm sure they'll come out great.
:smile:

Both of those are hilarius! I've got no advice because our daughter is only 7 months. I am very cutious about the nakedness situation because my daughter LOVES bring naked, so I think your dilema is in our future.

HELP.....Question.....
I hope someone has a answer, or at least some advice. My daughter will not stay dressed!!! Is this just a 3 yr. old phase thing or what? She never really had a problem with clothes before, but lately I can't keep any on her. Just one example, last night before going to bed myself I always go and check on the kids, I go into my daughters room and the p.j.'s I put her to bed in are now being worn by her big Winnie the Pooh stuffed animal. Even her underwear! She was sleeping totally in the buff! This is not the first instance just one of many examples. Fortunately this has just been an issue at home, it hasn't spilled out into daycare or when we are out and about. I just want to get her outta this stage real quick so it doesn't start happening at daycare or when we are out. Any advice?

Yup, it's a phase. But it may last a while! My older daughter went through this. (The jury's still out on our youngest, she's still figuring out how to undress at this point.) We couldn't keep clothes on our older daughter for the longest time. We told her that she had to wear panties, at the very least. So most of the time, at home, that's what she'd be hanging out in. We explained to her that our bodies are private and at home it was okay, but she couldn't do this at school or play dates or in public. And she never ever did try it anywhere else. But at home she was semi-naked most of the time, lol. If it really really really bothers you, maybe you could by her a pretty robe to wear at home. Kids try and rebel and push our buttons at this age when they know something bothers us. They want to see how far they can go. If you make too big a deal out of it, the stage may last longer. Just make sure you explain to her that it's NOT allowed anywhere else and give her a little slack at home. She'll grow out of it.

PS ... I found it very precious that she dressed her Pooh bear in her jammies. That made me smile.

Thanks goddessblue, will try that route. It doesn't really bother me at home, I just don't want her to start doing it other places. I guess like most things with being a parent patience is the key.

A product I LOVE is the disposable changing pads!! Stuff them in your diaper bag when you are on the go, and put them down on dirty changing tables in grocery stores, or even for changing your baby at your mothers house on the couch or floor! They are good on the go. They are better than the plastic changing mats that you get with most diaper bags due to the fact that if you get pee on them.. or poopy on them.. you don't have to fuss with moving them OUT of the way to get your baby cleaned up.. then worry about cleaning up the diapy pad! Just crumble them up and throw them away! :)

Stefanie


I also love being really organized with gallon sized ziploc bags! You can put anything that goes in your babies mouth in a bag to keep them clean! You can also put stinky diapers in the them if you arent near a trash can. Carry a few extra for clean clothes and clothes that maybe get soiled. :) They are great!

I have to say that the one item I really appreciate already is my floppy seat. I put it in shopping carts and high chairs when we are out and about and I know baby is clean as can be. It also has little clips for her toys and binky -- so I don't have to worry about them flying all over the place.

aydansmommoy and notlost, I agree. I loved the disposable changing pads. Loved that they absorbed pee and could be thrown away. And yes, I had a floppy seat too. No baby hands on the cart that who knows what was touching that and where their hands were.:eek: Yuck!
Hey, The pics went great! Feather dusters work wondrous!!

During the first year, what's the best age to get your baby photographed? And also would anyone care to share their thoughts on getting a first tooth?

The place I take my daughter to have her pics taken has a feather duster. They use it on their toes and have even pretended the feather duster was going to get mommy. My daughter loved that from the time she could smile and still does at 27 months. Edit to add...Once you find a great photo shop and the right person that makes yuor child smile, stick with them. I make sure I make my appointment when my favorite person is working now. She's great with kids. Knows just what to do to make them smile.
The best age? Most people I know did them at 3m, 6m, 9m and 12m. I just did 3, 6 and