The Official New Mom Thread Part 2

[joats]

Hey everyone.
This weekend has been busy and I have not been free during Jace's naps. Yesterday I had another trip to the vet for our cat (just a check up) then DH, Jace and I went to my niece's 6th bday party at "the little gym". It was so much fun. Jace had a ball running around and climbing all the mats and using the gym equiptment. He even ate some pizza!

Today I went out early to the grocery and then after lunch we took Jace to get sneakers. He loves them! One of the staff at the store asked him if he got new shoes (as of course he wanted to keep them on) and he bent down and touched his shoes and smiled to the man. It was really a cute moment. My parents are home from London and are coming over this afternoon for a post-trip visit. My Uncle is also here from Michigan visiting so it should be a nice afternoon.

DH is feeling better and per the Orthopedic MD is ok'd to go back to work w/follow up. If things get worse then he might have to have an epidural/steroid shot in the bulging disk area. So far, so good though...he's really been doing well this week. But I keep telling him to take it easy - he's still not lifting Jace much - which is ok by me...I don't want him to relapse.

Sorry I can't do a proper post, but I've been reading keeping up with you all.
If I'm not to exhausted tonight, I'll try to post again.

 

[zalansky]

FF - here is a link to the site for the consignment sale:

http://www.avzsale.com/index.html

I would LOVE to try Vero soon, it is just a matter of DH getting time off from work and he just took last week off. I wish the points were not so high on the weekends. We'd be there in a heartbeat otherwise!

Joats - that is a cute story about Jace and the sneakers. His eye looks GREAT by the way!

Robin - We have never tried Kona Cafe and I really want to try something new. Off to check out the menu. I will eat anything, DH is picky. But if I like the menu, I will book it. When Mommy is happy, everyone is happy, right???

 

[nucpharm29]

z-I just checked out the website for your consignment sale and it sounds really similar to what I did--except the one here looks ( from the pics) a LOT bigger. And I'll get my money tomorrow when I pick up what I didn't want donated.

I am so bored today. I'm used to running around on Sundays, from church to the grocery, to fixing dinner, etc, etc etc--but since we went to church last night, I don't know what to do with my "extra" time. Could sure use a nap, but don't see that happening!

 

[Ginamarie]

nucpharm- I'd be checking out the potential neighbors too!

FloridaFam- chicken soup sounds fantastic. I'm looking forward to doing some more cooking more. I still haven't moved the stuff from our fridge/freezer out of the apartment, so it's been pretty limited eating here so far.

Joats- glad your DH is feeling better.

zalansky- Kona Cafe is great. We had a great dinner there a couple of years ago too.

I need to work on my WDW dining reservations actually. Since our flight home got moved earlier I probably won't be able to make lunch on our last day, but maybe a nice breakfast instead. Plus I'm going to cancel a couple of reservations, since we need to save $$!

 

[T16GEM]

Hi everyone!

WOW!! Things have been busy with us for the last few days! We have been away to the coast to see my brother and his family - they moved about 3 hours away from us in May. We all miss them like crazy and them us too. We had a great time at the beach and Shelby loved playing with my neices and nephews, it was such a shame that we had to leave - the kids cried for 2 hours straight after we left. I felt so bad but we had to go home!

Back to work tomorrow too egggghhhhh!!

Shelby has gone to sleep in her crib, alone, without any coaxing tonight - this truly is a first!! I am so pleased I just hope that we can keep it up - and possibly go through the night.
Fingers crossed.

Hope every one is well, I havn't been able to lurk for a few days but hope to catch up tomorrow so I can send a proper post to everyone then.

Take care all

gems

 

[BuzznBelle'smom]

Good afternoon, everyone! I managed to get through my "solo day" yesterday, with just the two little ones, and went to Target, to boot! I had my 10% off card, and with diapers on sale, figured it was time to stock up. I also got Celeste a "Hello Kitty" bathmat--she's absolutely nuts for anything HK. At least Santa knows what to fill her stocking with! I also got a new mini-chopper--we broke the cord on our last one, and I need one for making babyfood. So, I got the cheapest one there, since I have a big Cuisinart chopper that's 20 years old that will need replacing soon.

WARNING!!! SHAMELESS MOM BRAG AHEAD!

I just got back from play rehearsal, and Jocelyn not only is a ribbon dancer, but she got a part! An actual part, with two whole lines! I can't believe it--this is only her sixth year in the play! I'm sure she only got it because the director is her dance teacher, and she really likes Jocelyn, so she gave Jocelyn the absolute smallest, who-cares-if-it- gets-messed-up kind of part, but Jocelyn is just thrilled. And she almost didn't try out for a speaking part (she really doesn't sing well, and it's a musical). So she's the "Hotel Manager". Or "Maid"--I'm not sure. But I'm sure Broadway can't be far away, right?

Gems--That's great about Shelby in the crib. It certainly would make things easier for you down the road when the new baby comes. We're hoping to set up Luke's crib soon, but I'm much less confident about the whole sleeping through the night thing.

Loretta--we ate at Kona Cafe for lunch a few weeks ago. It was delicious--try the sticky wings. We had breakfast there twice, too. Loved the macadamia nut and pineapple pancakes. We adults liked it better than 'Ohana's, food-wise.

My thoughts on a Mom's meet restaurant--if there's a possiblity of some people staying off-site and or not having the park-hopping option, it might be better to not hit a restaurant inside a park. Fortunately, there are some nice ones that meet this criteria--my thoughts would be something on the Boardwalk (Spoodles? Flying Fish?), Cape May Cafe at the Beach Club, Rainforest Cafe at the Animal Kingdom, or maybe something at Downtown Disney. For a family meal, Chef Mickey's, 'Ohana, or Rainforest Cafe would get my votes.

SL--I can't believe someone would have a 6-hour party. Way too much! Robert's 9, and 3 hours is plenty at his age.

I hope everyone else is enjoying this "last weekend of summer", at least in the Northeast.

 

[llij]

Good afternoon!

I'm here during a quick study break. John is currently napping and Dave and Meagan are at All Star soccer tryouts. They desperately need a coach for one of the teams and I think Dave will volunteer even though he promised to not coach this fall due to my crazy schedule. I told him to go ahead and do it though b/c I know he loves it. I feel like I'm asking for too much of a sacrifice with the kids and Dave b/c of my school and I feel bad about that. We can't say 'no' to everything just b/c I need to stick my nose in a book.

I know that I am whining a bunch lately, but if I am sane come December than that will be a miracle! Dave's family is coming up in three weeks for a 'mini family' reunion. I'll be having my BIL's family and my MIL stay here for 4 days and host a dinner for 18 on one night. Shoot me now...... Just kidding! I knew this was a possibility but I got the confirmation last night. Any ideas on what I could bake ahead and freeze in order to feed everyone? I'm limited on time, so any suggestions are appreciated.

BNBmom - CONGRATULATIONS to Jocelyn! That is wonderful news!!!! When is the show?

Lissawynn - I'm sorry that your heartburn is just awful. I really hope that this medicine works for you. You have had quite the tough pregnancy so far! BTW, thanks for the 'heads up' about the helmut. I'm thinking I might have to purchase one for John very soon!

Gems - It is great to hear from you! I'm glad that your holiday was nice and I'm saying some prayers that work is good for you tomorrow. I hope your co-workers are nice.

Floridafam - You are the resident expert chef around here so I will ask your advice. Any ideas on what could be easy to serve a large crowd? BTW, your soup sounds delicious! You need to post your recipes!

Ginamarie - Congrats on finding the china! Good luck with all of your work unpacking. How did the sleepover go the other night?

Joats - Jace sounds like such a cutie pie! I'm glad to hear that your dh's back is getting better. Enjoy your time with your parents!

Zalansky - Good luck with the consignment sale!

Nucpharm - If I had neighbors moving, I'd probably be looking out the window at prospective neighbors too.

Robin - Awwww....your kids sound like such sweeties! I can't wait to meet them one day!

Val - That is wonderful that your son's birthday was a success! I bet the 7 years have flown by for you! Katie is turning 8 in 12 days and it seems like yesterday she was born. Good luck with the packing!

GLT - It is great to hear from you! We miss you!

SL - 6 hours is quite a long time for a birthday party! You all must be so tired! I know I would be!

J&D - Thanks for letting us know about the recall! BTW, my professor asked me to do a 'tug of war' demonstration (i.e. pulleys) for my first demo next week. I still need to come up with three more and I'm so grateful that you have helped me with your ideas! Thank you!


Well, I better run! I probably won't be around for the next few days since Monday and Tuesday are my crazy days. Tomorrow is John's first day at the sitter and I start to teach CCD (religious ed.) tomorrow afternoon too. Everyone have a great Sunday and I'll pop back in when I can!

 

[Strawberry Lemonade]

We just got back from the Olive Garden. What a nightmare. It's MIL's birthday and she wanted to go to brunch but we told her that's Lucas's nap time (11-2ish) so breakfast or lunch would be better. She decided dinner instead. Lucas had a complete and total meltdown. We were actually "that family" with the screaming child. I was mortified - he has never done that in public before. I'm talking screaming, throwing food and utensils, spilling drinks, whatever he got his hands on. DH and I took Lucas and hightailed it out of there and hopefully MIL or someone remembers to get our food packed up in to-go containers. Of course, he fell asleep in the car.

Bnb - Congrats to your DD! She's Broadway bound for sure!

llij - I hope you make it through your busy days. Have a good time at the mini reunion.

Gem - Congrats on Shelby sleeping.

val - Glad to hear your grandfather is doing better!

glt -

ginamarie - I'm so glad you found your china! I would be so upset if I lost any of mine. I've never used it and it's not an heirloom or anything, but I just really like it.

floridafam - Mmmmm...your homemade soup sounds so good.

nucpharm - I hope you find something to do with your extra time today.

zalansky - Have fun planning your trip!

Alice28 - Aw, Sam and Molly sound so cute together.

I went to Old Navy today with some gift cards I got for my birthday. I actually found a pair of pants that I like that fit so well that I bought them in 2 different colors. I also got Lucas a pair of corduroys and DH a pair of sunglasses.

 

[floridafam]

jill,

The first thing that comes to mind for a large crowd is lasagna (because you can make it ahead of time and then bake it when you need it.) You could have salad and bread and maybe Pumpkin cheesecake or something. You can even make that ahead of time, too.

Do you have something a little more fancy in mind? I think I would go nuts if I had to cook for 18 people at one time.

I'm far from an expert chef. I have just developed this love for cooking the past few years. I thnk it has somethng to do with us having the Food Network now. We didn't have it in Michigan. Even my kids love to watch it.


Speaking of recipes......Can I get that lemon cake recipe that a few of you have mentioned? I think it belongs to Tamie or Robin. It sounds so good.

buzzandbelle'smom

Yeah for Jocelyn!!


T16GEM,

Hi there

I was able to take an hour nap with Kona today. It was heavenly. I think we are going to go outside and get some fresh air.

We aren't doing much this week. Tomorrow is a trip to Target and maybe the mall to return something. That's about it.

I'll check back later.

 

[Alice28]

BNB- Yay for Jocelyn! That's awesome news!

Jill- I second lasagne, except I would probably just buy two at Costco, buy a couple bags of salad and some veggies to cut up and toss into the salad, several loaves of garlic bread and a Costco cake. Voila, party Robin style. Good luck the next few days- you are one busy gal!

SL- We have been 'that' family more than once. It's so hard sometimes to have a peaceful meal out, isn't it? We lucked out at Chevy's today for lunch- all 3 kids were agreeable. Miracle.

FF- Nice that you got to nap! Molly is REFUSING to nap today. She's throwing a fit as I type. Ugh.

Hi Gems! That's wonderful Shelby went to sleep in her crib!

Joats- great news about your DH feeling better! I bet you are all relieved- he's been down and out for quite some time!

Here ya go Holly- the famous Lemon Cake Recipe a la Pampered Chef:

Down Home Lemon Pudding Cake
2-3 lemons (2T lemon zest and 1/3 cup juice)
1 package (18.25 ounces) yellow cake mix
1 cup skim milk
2/3 cup sugar
2 T cornstarch
1 1/2 cups very warm water (120-130 F)
Powdered sugar
Fresh berries (optional)

PReheat oven to 375 F. Lightly spray Deep Dish Baker (or I would say a 9x9 Pyrex) with vegetable spray. Zest lemons. Combine cake mix, milk and lemon zest and mix well. Pour into prepared baker. Combine sugar and cornstarch; add lemon juice and warm water to sugar mixture and mix well with whisk. Pour lemon mixture over batter. Bake 40-45 minutes or until cake tester comes out clean. Cool slightly and sprinkle with powdered sugar. To serve, spoon warm cake into dessert bowls and top with fresh berries, if desired.

This is TO DIE FOR yummy, and low fat/calorie too. 3g of fat per serving and 183 calories.

 

[BuzznBelle'smom]

Quickie update--Jocelyn is also dancing in the play. She was cast as one of the "ribbon dancers", which was the part she originally wanted. She really only does the play to dance, and doesn't usually even audition for a speaking role. But this time, she didn't audition for dance because her best friend isn't a dancer (ARRGH!), so the only way she got a second shot at the dance part was to solo audition, then dance. I don't know if that made sense, but I was really ticked because it was the first time she held back on something she loves because of a friend. So, now she's practicing her dance steps--I think the two lines are already memorized. Anyway, the play is the weekend before Thanksgiving (two shows, one each day), and I'm going to be baking cookies and also helping out backstage on Sun. We generally have a bunch of people coming in from out of town, so it's a crazy weekend for us, but fun nonetheless.

Jill--I would definitely say lasagna as well. If you don't do Costco, etc., consider Stouffer's. Not cheap, but really good. And the sides (salad, bread, etc.) cometogether easily. Other possibilities would be a turkey (I know, you said to freeze, but that's my stand-by for play weekends!), or stew or chili--both reheat well. If it's going to be a less formal type occasion, consider a Mexican theme with tacos.

SL--No, you're not one of THOSE families! Exibit A: You actually took your screaming kid OUT of the restaurant! THOSE families sit there and blithely order appetizers and act like they wish someone would take care of that screaming sound. Seriously, I would never fault a parent for having a screaming kid--we've all been there--but I would for not dealing with the situation. Of course, I'm the proud mother of kids who like to vomit in restaurants, so I'm really not in a position to throw stones in any case!

 

[floridafam]

My soup was so easy.

I sauteed about a cup each of celery, carrots and onions in some olive oil (2 tablespoons.) I added in parsley, rosemary and thyme (I sound like a Simon and Garfunkle song.) I didn't measure the spices, I just did it to taste.

Also salt and pepper to taste.

Then I added one container of Swanson's chicken broth after the veggies cooked for a while.

I brought that to a boil and then added a cut up store bought chicken and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. I then added noodles and some water so the noodles were covered and let it simmer until the noodles were cooked.

That's it. It tasted so good (If I do say so myself)

It tasted as if it had been cooking all day but it only took about 40 minutes tops.

 

[fabumouse]

Jill - that is hysterical about John beating his head on the table. And the other thing that keeps waking the baby is the unfortunate set up of phones in our house - one rings very loudly in the living room - almost always in that transition period of sort of awake to dreamland.

J&D - thanks for the recall info. I purchased formula while I was pumping for Madeleine and fortunately, the date is November so didn't fall within the bad batch.

Lissa - I also wish I could get around to selling my stuff on ebay, but I donate it to the red cross and take the tax deduction instead. I'm so sorry about your poor puppy.

SL - glad the party was nice. I KWYM about the lack of food - a friend of mine threw a wedding without near enough food and people just sort of drifted away.

and I'm so sorry about your dinner with your MIL!!! Kailey has had moments like that - I've had to do time-outs on the floor in the grocery store, with people glaring at me. Phhhhfffft.

Valerie - well, the big ha ha on me *again* is that I bought all those clothes because I thought I was so very careful about organizing DD's clothing by size and season and thought she had outgrown almost everything. Of course today I came across a plastic bin marked "age 5" half full of clothes from last winter that she can still wear. What fun that you are gearing up physically and emotionally for your trip!

Hi GTL!

Ginamarie - congrats on finding the China. I've been missing my MIL's old anniversary ring for about 5 months now and have no hope of finding it. BTW, where did you go to law school?

Robin - GASP!!! Missed the COF sale? Then you'll have to make up for it during the holiday sales. That sounds like such a sweet moment with your kids.

BnB - I always *mean* to make my own baby food. It seems like a very good mom thing to do.

I have just been a big stress bucket lately. I'm really feeling like I'm not participating enough in Kailey's transition to Kindergarten - and they have all these volunteer groups that I'd love to do a little something with (e.g., once a week at their library hour) but I obviously can't. And this Thursday is open house where the parents get a tour and see the classroom (I have never seen it) and meet the teacher, whom I've essentially just waved to at drop off and pick up. DH is going to be in Texas on Thursday for a meeting that was scheduled months ago and is too important to miss. Even if I can drop Kailey off at a friend's I'm not sure what to do with Madeleine. Take her with me? I'm negotiating with a baby sitter for the night, but the program is from 6:30 to 9pm and I think the baby will be a hysterical mess by the end of it, even if I feed her as I'm walking out the door.

 

[Hillbeans]

Good evening ladies,

I've been sick most of the weekend with some cold I must have caught from Kevin - now that he's back at school and aftercare, he's again the carrier for germs! I have to remember to Purell him down at night and remind him to wash his hands as often has he can while at school. Unfortunately now DH is starting to feel sick - uh oh! I'm going to catch up reading everyone's posts tonight and try to post a reply tomorrow night.

We've got a busy week ahead of us - Liam's birthday is coming up on the 23rd, and we're having a big BBQ so hopefully this sickness will run it's course before then. At least the boys only have runny noses.

Goodnight everyone and i'll talk with you tomorrow night.

 

[Ginamarie]

Buzznbelle- What play is your DD performing in? All that talk of those macadamia pineapple pancakes sealed the deal for my Disney dining reservations. I dropped our lunch at Coral Reef and added breakfast at Kona. It will be less expensive AND we’ll have a much easier time catching the Magic Express.

Jill- Man 18 people sounds like a lot! For big parties I like to prepare trays of things I can just pop in the oven, like a tray of lasagna (oooh everyone else said lasagna too!). The sleepover went really well. DSIS is so cute with Olivia. She was so proud to be the first person staying in the guest room. Now my other sister wants to sleep over too.

SL- Don’t feel bad. I think we’ve all been “that family” once or twice. I’ve never used my china either. It’s been in boxes since my wedding shower up until now. I just love how pretty it is.

FloridaFam- I love to cook too. I wish DH was home more for dinner, because it’s not the same when you’re cooking for one.

My dad came over with the kids for dinner. They were all bugging him that they miss Olivia. DSis(8) heard that my mom is coming on Tuesday to help me get things done at the house and asked if she could come alone. When I told her that she’d have to go to school she said “I hate school, I don’t want to go to school!” So of course DBro decided that he hates school too, and has been telling everyone how much he hates it and doesn’t want to go there (not that he goes to school yet).

The weather was nice today. I thought it was going to be too hot, but it was just nice and warm. I’m starting to hit a wall as far as feeling tired goes, but I really want to see Amazing Race tonight. I’m not ready to start another work week.

I still didnt send my exchange gift. One more thing and then I'm getting it in the mail.. seriously this time!

 

[floridafam]

Tamie,

I noticed there were some terrible storms in your area. I hope that you all are safe. Please post when you can and let us know how you are doing.


ginamarie,

Is the new season of Amazing Race on tonight? I noticed that there is a woman who does the Ironman that is going to be on AR this year. She's a real inspiration. She only has one leg and she has done and Ironman triathlon. We watched her story a few years ago during the Ironman coverage and it brought tears to our eyes. I really want to see how she does.

 

[DisKim]

Hi ladies! I haven't really had a chance to catch up this weekend. I tried to post a reply about 3 times today and kept getting sidetracked. I cannot stand Sundays. I have so much to do in that one day that I get totally overwhelmed. I've done 5 loads of laundry, cleaned the house, went food shopping, cooked dinner, got everything ready for tomorrow, did a little fall decorating and tried to weed through Aidan's clothes. I'm dead on my feet. I need to go to work to relax. Hopefully, all traces of the flood situation on Friday will be gone. I bought some air fresheners for my classroom because I'm afraid the school is going to stink. I hope everyone had a good weekend and I will try to catch up tomorrow.

 

[Ginamarie]

ETA- Everyone is posting at the same time tonight!

Fabumouse- I went to St John's University for law school. It wasn't my first choice, but they threw a bunch of scholarship money at me at the last minute (two weeks into the semester actually).

Hillbeans- Sorry you've been sick!

FloridaFam- I just found out Amazing Race starts tonight (thank goodness for cable's channel guide). I'll take a lookout for the Iron woman.

 

[Alice28]

I just have to vent for a moment----

Oh- pre-vent. I think my exchange gift will go postal tomorrow. I sold 2 items on ebay this weekened, so I might as well get the package off as well. I will probably send it parcel though, so the EAST coast lady who will be getting it (gee, that narrows it down a lot, LOL) may not get it til Friday or so.

once again I'm just SICK of all these neighborhood varmits, I mean children, who live on our street. Esp the one kid right next store who has some SERIOUS learning and social disabilities. His grandparents, dad and aunt all live in this house but no one seems to give a crap that he runs up and down the street just screaming his head off, saying inappropriate things....just OBNOXIOUS. The other kids have all been ok, but again, kind of like flies. When we drove up from going out to lunch they all just kind of swarmed. It's almost suffocating sometimes.

We went and peeked in the windows of that house again, and there's too many strikes against it in my book. We did email the realtor and said we would like to look in it though. It's 2600 square feet, and yet I only see one living area, and it's not that big. The rest of the house is divided up into the 5 bedrooms and 'bonus' rooms which are so teeny. And it's electric heat, which is so expensive. We would have to buy a fridge and W/D as they are not included. I just really need to get a contractor over here to tell me how much this basement remodel will be, so we have a firm idea of what we would be getting into, or if it's just easier to buy a different house.

OK, I need to go patrol dinner- Joshua is being a PITA about telling me how he can't eat his spaghetti, when what he really wants to is not eat so he can play gameboy. (so in 45 minutes he can tell me how starving he is).

 

[T16GEM]

Hi everyone – I finally caught up – mostly anyways!! No smilies I am afraid as I have typed in Word!

Jill – Wow you are organising a biggie! I would go for tray stuff too, like GM said it’s easy to get together in a short space. Good luck.

Robin – Sorry that the kids in your area are acting up again, did you think anymore about moving?

SL – We have been that family too! We usually eject Shelby from the restaurant as soon as we can too. She can be a PITA if she wants to be and it’s just easier to leave.

Fabmouse – Hi!

Floridafam – Your cooking sounds wonderful!! It’s nice when you can nap with the baby isn’t it – although that doesn’t happen too much around here right now!

BNB – Congrats to Jocelyn! I bet you are so proud! You will have to see if you can post some piccies of her performance when she does it . Bring on Broadway huh!!


Hi to all the mommies that I missed!


Well I guess I spoke too soon last night about Shelby in her crib, she was great until 2 am then she screamed the house down, not sure what reason was behind the outburst but she wouldn’t come to bed with me and DH either in the end DH got her in a head lock (kinda) and cuddled her until she stopped yelling and it turned into a kind of whimper instead. She went back to sleep until 7am and that was that. I am at my wits end with what to do with her sleeping through, I need to sort something out before the new baby arrives I just hope we can. I have 4 months to get her sorted! And counting!

On the work front, they have sent a lot of my nasty co-workers to another office so I basically have a desk on my own now, I don’t have to talk to anyone (but also no one to talk to me) and I think I like it better. However, last week people were being nice – so I am not sure if someone has said something to them??

Did I say that I did my exchange shopping at the weekend also? I got some cute stuff so I shall try and get that Airmailed today or tomorrow.