MyBaby - rockergirrl Journal

Circus Smirkus

Posted May 31, 2007 at 4:06PM by rockergirrl
www.findbarefootbooks.com

Just got my Circus Smirkus tickets today. This New England thing but if you have a chance to catch Circus Smirkus you should. They will be in VT, NY, MA, ME and NH this summer. Go to www.smirkus.org for all the details and to buy your tix.

Tags: circussmirkus

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birdiehandmade responded May 31, 2007 at 4:52PM

It's definately a fun show - but be warned, even 18 month olds have to buy full price tickets. It's worth the money though.

rockergirrl responded May 31, 2007 at 4:55PM

www.findbarefootbooks.com

really? The website said adults were $18 and kids 2-12 are $15. That would lead me to believe under two is free.

birdiehandmade responded May 31, 2007 at 10:24PM

Yeah, maybe O was 2 when we took him? I just remember being shocked that he had to pay (almost) full price when he could barely even speak, but like I said, it is worth the money - it's just not a cheap thing to do with a family.

Growing garden

Posted May 31, 2007 at 7:42AM by rockergirrl
www.findbarefootbooks.com

I moved into my house almost 6 years ago. We rented it for the first 4 years and bought it two years ago. It came with established perennial gardens and a veggie garden plot. When I first moved here I thought I knew about gardening but quickly learned I knew nothing. I was once told a perennial garden needs no work. Not sure what that person was smoking. The garden has changed so much since I first moved in. Not in the best way always. Each year I learn more and more and it is slowly becoming mine. I am learning to work with it and change it to fit my style more. As I have mentioned before gardening is like parenting. You will never master it, every day is a learning experience, and it takes much patience and love to nurture it and watch it grow

Here are a few pics from part of my gardens.

back corner perennial garden

back corner perennial - my new birthday pot

Herb spiral

Veggie garden

Tags: digging in the dirt, gardening

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Sticky_Mommy responded May 31, 2007 at 8:37AM

I love my job, it gives me a break from my kids!

So lovely! I feel grounded just looking at the photos. I really like gardening, it's the waiting around for things to grow and the weeding part I don't like.

birdiehandmade responded May 31, 2007 at 8:59AM

Looks great! I just put in some weird melon seeds yesterday - some sort of cantalope type thing? Every year we learn more, and experiment more with our gardens. I love spending the 20 or 30 minutes each day just watering my plants and watching their development. In my busy mommy day, it's like a bit of zen.

cosmoblue responded May 31, 2007 at 12:55AM

Lovely! I can't wait until we live somewhere with a yard for gardening.

handanmyl responded May 31, 2007 at 6:24PM

Three is for me!

We've been here for 2 years and I think I've finally gotten the hang of having to weed! Worst part, but I love gardening, I can't wait to go to the nursery on Sunday , i will be adding some dahlias.

Freedom

Posted May 30, 2007 at 8:29AM by rockergirrl
www.findbarefootbooks.com

Yesterday my son said goodbye to his training wheels forever. We had been practicing all week and yesterday it finally all clicked and he could ride around without falling. He rode around our yard all day long. It was amazing to watch. The look on his face was that of pure joy, determination and pride.

He said to me "now I can just come outside, get on my bike and go wherever I want by myself."

I was overcome with complete joy, pride and a touch of sadness.

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Sticky_Mommy responded May 30, 2007 at 11:05AM

I love my job, it gives me a break from my kids!

Congrats on creating a indy little man!

mecjg responded May 30, 2007 at 11:10AM

It is the greatest thing to witness. My girl started about 2 months ago and off to the races she went. I am now trying with my 3 yr. old. I am not sure if this will happen this year (probably not).Good luck!

birdiehandmade responded May 30, 2007 at 8:46PM

For any parents of the 3ish set, we got our 3yr old a wooden like a bike this past Christmas from Back to Basics Toys, and he absolutely loves it. For those of you who don't know what it is, it's this European bike made out of wood that has no pedals. It looks like a bike - with two wheels - but is powered with the feet like a ride on toy. The great thing is that the kids learn balance without having to learn pedaling at the same time. The theory is that by the time they try a real pedal bike, they've already got the balance thing down. Si loves his dirtbike (it looks like a motorcycle, but very modern and cool - you don't even mind looking at it lying around the house!) I recommend these to everyone who is learning to ride bikes!

Sleep/parenting book recommendation

Posted May 25, 2007 at 7:04AM by rockergirrl
www.findbarefootbooks.com

If you are looking for a more AP approach to getting your baby to sleep I highly recommend The No Cry Sleep Solution - gentle ways to help your baby sleep through the night by Elizabeth Pantley

The book is for people who want to avoid any of the "crying ou"methods. It is a wonderful book. Elizabeth Pantley is a an author and parent educator who is highly endorsed by the super AP Dr Sears family of authors.

I also recommend these other two books by her:

Kid Cooperation: How to Stop Yelling, Nagging and Pleading and Get Kids to Cooperate
and
The No-Cry Discipline Solution: Gentle Ways to Encourage Good Behavior Without Whining, Tantrums, and Tears

Tags: parenting, sleep

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Sticky_Mommy responded May 25, 2007 at 1:27PM

I love my job, it gives me a break from my kids!

Great suggestions, thanks rockergirrl!

cosmoblue responded May 25, 2007 at 4:59PM

I have the no-cry sleep solution and we are trying to institute some of the suggestions for co-sleeping and I am having a hard time because I cannot seem to wake up to do anything. Needless to say DD is still not sleeping through the night.

Too hot to cook

Posted May 24, 2007 at 4:56PM by rockergirrl
www.findbarefootbooks.com

Here in VT it has been cold until about um well today. It is hot. I had soup on my menu to make tonight and since it is the end of the week I don't have much else to make. I so do not want to make soup. I want dinner to be done, baths taken and kids in bed so I can sit on the deck and sip a cold one. Only three more hours. I guess I will go start my damn pot of soup.

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handanmyl responded May 24, 2007 at 7:03PM

Three is for me!

Soup was on our menu as well...needless to say , it didn't happen! All hail tuna fish sandwiches and applesauce!!! LOL

birdiehandmade responded May 24, 2007 at 7:19PM

The boys had scrambled eggs and toast, and Jesse and I had omlets and a salad - with baby greens from my garden. (A bit premature on the greens, I really mean BABY), but I love VT summers!

Misda_Sleep responded May 24, 2007 at 10:41PM

Nice and cold.... Organic Grape Nuts topped with Cinnamon Toast Crunch ;)

Kindergarten Orientation

Posted May 24, 2007 at 1:23PM by rockergirrl
www.findbarefootbooks.com

Sniff sniff, I just came back from Kindergarten orientation this morning. It was wonderful! So much better than I had thought. We loved the school. It was bright and welcoming. The kids all hung out in a room with existing students while the parents got a tour and Q&A time. I left feeling great and I am now so excited for my DS to start this fall.

I dropped DH off at work and when I got back home a friend left a message on my machine that she was heading to beach. I packed the boys in the car, threw some lunch in a cooler and off we went. It was very last minute and it was great. We played in the sand and water, ate burritos and were home by nap time.

I love summer.

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Sticky_Mommy responded May 24, 2007 at 2:21PM

I love my job, it gives me a break from my kids!

Bliss!

cosmoblue responded May 24, 2007 at 2:28PM

What a perfect way to spend a day.

birdiehandmade responded May 24, 2007 at 7:18PM

Yeah! Days like this rock!

My day

Posted May 23, 2007 at 10:39AM by rockergirrl
www.findbarefootbooks.com

My birthday yesterday was delightful. JB took the day off which made it so special. I went to the most amazing garden center in the morning (by myself) and bought lots of flowers for my front window boxes. I came home and was able to plant them while he watched the kids. We spent the rest of the day in yard working on putting our new swing set together. The weather was just perfect. We had a quick early pasta dinner and then had some cake and ice cream. My mom & dad sent me a gorgeous basket of flowers, JB got me this awesome belt I had been crushing at Made Boutique for months, JB's parents got me a gift card to Gardener's Supply and the boys gave me the painted projects they made at the paint a pot shop. Enzo's gift was light switch which is now rocking the wall in my kitchen and Sal gave me a painted elephant to hang. I love my boys.

The evening ended well by JB and I going out for a couple of drinks with some friends after we put the boys to bed while a friend babysat as my birthday gift. Thanks Kylbl!

I had many happy birthday wishes come through the phone, email and blogging community. Thanks to everyone! Usually I get bummed out when people forget my birthday. It seems like each year the numbers increase as we age and build families etc. This year it was three of my closest friends who forgot. It bummed me out but I didn't let it get to me as hard as I have in the past. It was a wonderful day and I am grateful for what I had.

belt from JB

handmade gifts from my boys

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Sticky_Mommy responded May 23, 2007 at 11:02AM

I love my job, it gives me a break from my kids!

Wow - sounds like an amazing day! Why do they only come once a year!?

cosmoblue responded May 23, 2007 at 1:53PM

Yay. Nice.

handanmyl responded May 23, 2007 at 6:10PM

Three is for me!

How wonderful. Happy birthday.

Happy Birthday to Me

Posted May 22, 2007 at 6:49AM by rockergirrl
www.findbarefootbooks.com

Today is my birthday!

to honor myself today I will

take small moments for myself throughout the day
weed and nourish my garden to cleanse my soul
sip tea in the afternoon
plant flowers in my window boxes for new growth
thank my mother for birthing me today

Tags: birthday

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Sticky_Mommy responded May 22, 2007 at 8:58AM

I love my job, it gives me a break from my kids!

Happy, happy Birthday - today's your birthday day, happy, happy birthday - today's your birthday!

cosmoblue responded May 22, 2007 at 1:21PM

Happy Birthday

momotogo responded May 22, 2007 at 2:25PM

HBD2U

olivesmama responded May 22, 2007 at 4:13PM

happy birthdayrock on!

handanmyl responded May 22, 2007 at 7:25PM

Three is for me!

Happy happy day

sally responded May 23, 2007 at 1:46AM

Happy birth day to you

Emotions run deep

Posted May 21, 2007 at 8:26AM by rockergirrl
www.findbarefootbooks.com

My 5 1/2 year old has always been a sensitive child. He doesn't like most movies because of the content. Where most adult concepts in a child's movie would go right over a child's head mine sees right through it. He doesn't watch movies usually (I can't stand Disney) but we did give in and decided to try out Cars last winter. A friend had told me it was the first Pixar movie that was geared more for children than adults. We bought it and previewed it first. I personally did not like the movie at all but I thought there wasn't anything in it that would scare him so we decided to let him watch it. Never did I think he we would get as upset as he did. If you have seen this movie there is a section of it where they explain the old town that no one visits anymore on Route 66. Well my son (despite the happy ending) was destroyed by this movie.

This weekend I was playing my guitar and I played and sang I song that I had written. When I finished he was so excited to talk about how I had written the song myself. The mood changed though after he asked me when I wrote it and I told him it was kind of a sad song because I wrote it right before I had moved out to CA. He lost it. He got so sad and started crying. I tried to explain how it has a happy ending because I met his father there and we ended up back here and had him.

I am realizing now how I need to be aware of this sensitive side of his. Not filter things but help him to express his emotions so he knows they are ok to have. I am a very sensitive soul myself. Just a song can bring me to tears. I just hope I can help him learn at this young age how to deal with this wild mix of emotions.

Tags: emotions

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Sticky_Mommy responded May 21, 2007 at 12:17AM

I love my job, it gives me a break from my kids!

What a thoughtful little boy! I found if I take the time to explain things to my 3.5 yr old the better she digest them. Finding ways to express thier emotions is the hard part if its sensitive, anger, sadness, or the whole gamet!

birdiehandmade responded May 21, 2007 at 8:52PM

It's so hard. YOu want to protect them by filtering sadness from them, but really I think they are better off learning ways to cope and deal with their sadness so that they know that they are OK to be sad. But it is such a hard line to tread.

Dealing w/ different parenting styles

Posted May 18, 2007 at 7:52AM by rockergirrl
www.findbarefootbooks.com

Has anyone else ever found that once their friends had kids the friendship gets a bit more complicated? All of a sudden you have to mix in different parenting styles. What happens if one of you does something the other strongly disagrees with? Many issues should of course go unsaid. Prechildren you might have had a completely honest relationship. Told each other everything. Even if it sometimes might have hurt each others feelings. But when it comes to our children and our ways of parenting where is the line drawn?

Case in point. I have a friend who was recently explaining to me the problems she was having with her child's behavior and how out of control their household is right now. Admitted they feel like they don't have any control over the situation. They are always yelling and spanking her. I cringed at listening the to the story. I wanted so badly to reach out and tell her I think hitting is wrong (even if you choose to call it spanking) it is hitting and it doesn't do any good in teaching a child anything. As vocal as I am I found myself just staying quiet and not saying much at all. I felt like I shouldn't step into their business although she was choosing to share it with me. I did want to step in for the child's sake though. I just didn't know how. I surprised my self that I stayed silent. I am not sure I can do it next time.

What would you have done? How do you handle situations of different parenting styles with your friends or family?

Tags: parenting styles

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dustbunny responded May 18, 2007 at 8:01AM

dishing the dirt, cleaning the chaos

offer a parenting book and say somthing like I know you are in a tough spot so I thought this might help you-I don't know but it might! try 'parenting with love and logic' or even a supernanny book- by Jo frost-she has great tips! they are easy to read and entertaining -or offer one you've read...

birdiehandmade responded May 18, 2007 at 8:19AM

Please see my post. I couldn't get it down to 300 words.

Alternatives To Punishment

Posted May 18, 2007 at 7:40AM by rockergirrl
www.findbarefootbooks.com

Alternatives To Punishment

Copy this list and post it where you can see it, as a constant reminder.

Use positive reinforcement.
Create a positive environment.
Say yes as much as possible.
Save no for the important things.
Use natural consequences.
Use logical consequences.
Use restitution.
Leave it up to your child.
Compromise.
State your expectations, and get out of the way.
Give specific instructions.
Give a reason.
Offer help.
Give a choice.
Redirect your child.
Remove your child.
Make positive statements.
Give in occasionally.
Give your child time to agree.
Simply insist.
Make rules.
Ignore some behavior.
Avoid nagging and threats.
Distract your child.
Use humor.
Make it a game.
Be willing to admit your mistakes.
Stop and think before you act.
Don't make a big fuss over little things.
Stick to routines.
Don't hurry your children too much.
Get to the root of the problem.
Correct one behavior at a time.
Give yourselves time.
Use the golden rule.
Model appropriate behavior.
Think of your child as an equal.
Always keep your love for your child in mind.

**From Mothering Magazine www.mothering.com

Tags: gentle parenting

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Teachers stage fake gunman attack

Posted May 17, 2007 at 1:08PM by rockergirrl
www.findbarefootbooks.com

Move over media - now we have teachers to scare our children.

Teachers stage fake gunman attack on six-graders

I would pull my kid so fast out of that school. Those teachers deserve to lose their jobs. It is one thing to have a lock down drill. It is another to do this. Lame lame lame.

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ZombieDad responded May 17, 2007 at 1:12PM

ZZZ

ACK! That's awful.. just awful. No one should ever have to experience those feelings. And for what? A drill? Fire them all.

dustbunny responded May 17, 2007 at 1:46PM

dishing the dirt, cleaning the chaos

I know this is corny BUT this reflects our society. Blame the teachers but still, those kids probably play gun video games at home- PLUS if they paid teachers a wage that equals the hours, hoop jumping, training, and burn-out, well, then we'd have teachers smart enough to make better choices!

cosmoblue responded May 17, 2007 at 1:54PM

That is so not nice. I can not even imagine.

NCGirl22 responded May 17, 2007 at 8:43PM

Holy Cow - have they lost their minds?? I agree - Fire them all. Those are not the kind of teachers I want around my child.

birdiehandmade responded May 18, 2007 at 7:43AM

My kids would be out of that school.

LatteMommy responded May 21, 2007 at 9:42AM

LatteMommy

OMG! This is SO disturbing. I won't be surprised if these kids who went through this, end up having psychological issues stemming from this ill decision. I would never allow my child to attend this school ever again and I would also demand the ones responsible for making the decision BE FIRED!

amccrea responded May 22, 2007 at 4:16PM

You would imagine that they migh get parent's input before they decided to execute such a drill. It was on a class trip after all, they could have easily included in the permission slip oh and by the way, we are going to scare your children to death on this trip

Waldorf inspired web and book resources

Posted May 17, 2007 at 8:20AM by rockergirrl
www.findbarefootbooks.com

The Waldorf Homeschoolers website is a wonderful resource of info for any parent interested in creating a more holistic model of education and parenting in their homes. You don't have to attend a waldorf school or even home school to benefit from the wonderful info this website offers. If you are interested in weaving any of the waldorf beliefs in your home life and child rearing at all this is a great place to learn about it.

While I am on the subject I will also recommend three of the best books I have ever read on gentle parenting based on Waldorf beliefs. I am not a Waldorf purist by any means. My children do not attend Walforf schools, but I am a huge believer in attachment parenting and I have always incorporated many Waldorf beliefs into my home life.

These books are based on Waldorf beliefs although I have found each author did a great job at incorporating it in their own ways.

You are Your Child's First Teacher
Beyond the Rainbow Bridge
Seven Times the Sun: Guiding Your Child Through the Rhythms of the Day

Tags: Waldorf

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mama match

Posted May 16, 2007 at 7:46AM by rockergirrl
www.findbarefootbooks.com

I had a good experience in high school. Maybe that is why I am sucking at fitting in with the cliques that are around my life now. Mom cliques. I had a good friend who used to live here. Our kids were about the same age. We both worked at the big "B" in our early twenties. Both moved out to California and lived for a few years. Both fell in love, had some kiddos and ended back in VT. We hung out weekly. It was a very comfortable friendship. Then right when I finally decided to quit my job and stay home full time she moved.

I have been on my own since trying to fit into a world of play dates, sippy cups and exclusiveness. I go to the parks, I go to the music events, I go to the library. Where are all the hip mamas? Perhaps they are so hip they don't go to any of these places. I don't know. I can't seem to meet anyone. Everyone seems to already have their group of friends or whatever mom's club they belong too. I feel like I am on the dating scene again. When I go to the park I want to walk up to people I see and ask them if they have any room left in their social circle for another mom. It is desperate and sad. I just keep hoping as I did before I met JB that one of these days I will see someone across the park from me. Another mama who looks like maybe she doesn't fit in either. Maybe our eyes will meet and we will just know. We will know we have found our match.

Maybe I have found another company I can start. Mama Match - meet someone who won't crimp your style.

I will start.

Me:
age:33 (a week shy of 34)
hair: brown
kids: 2
Likes: Loud music, making stuff, wooden toys, digging in the dirt with my kids and drinking beer (sometimes)
Dislikes: McDonalds, plastic parents, toy guns

wanna be my friend?

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olivesmama responded May 16, 2007 at 10:11AM

I'll be your friend!

Sticky_Mommy responded May 16, 2007 at 10:37AM

I love my job, it gives me a break from my kids!

Love you new biz model! We should start a local playday for MyBaby members who want to meet off-line.

dustbunny responded May 16, 2007 at 10:38AM

dishing the dirt, cleaning the chaos

what neighborhood/area are you in? I just moved here (last summer) and I've never fit in really, either, but surprisingly, the suburban moms over here (orchard school area in SB)are totally mismatched but totally cool- even the dufus dads are fun. come over here...coffee, mimosa, whatever

FrecklQn responded May 16, 2007 at 10:57AM

You and me. Playdate - next week. Tell me when E is not in school and we'll get together. I have a circle but am the opposite. . .I don't like belonging to a group. I like having different friends to hang with, and no obligation to hang with anyone in particular.

birdiehandmade responded May 16, 2007 at 11:33AM

I wish I could click my ruby slippers three times and come have a playdate w you all. I so don't fit in around here it's almost good - people are just nice to me because they think I'm slightly insane, but I WISH I had some mamas who understand around here!

birdiehandmade responded May 16, 2007 at 11:35AM

aargh word count - I'm definately a little sick of being the loner. What is it with mom dynamics? I felt the same way up in BTown, and you'd think it would be the opposite. Everyone is just so BUSY these days, that we forget to make time to be open to others.

rockergirrl responded May 16, 2007 at 12:34AM

www.findbarefootbooks.com

by the way it was you birdiehandmade I was talking about. my friend who moved away. boo-hoo

kymadsmom responded July 6, 2007 at 12:52AM

can i be your friend

rockergirrl responded July 6, 2007 at 12:57AM

www.findbarefootbooks.com

You already are :)

agatac responded November 15, 2007 at 10:10AM

Hey LAdy!I understand you very well.
This world is so busy and sometimes people forget to make new friends!!!!
ps. is there any way to send private emails to each other?

rockergirrl responded November 15, 2007 at 10:20AM

www.findbarefootbooks.com

Hi. yes you can click on the person's username and leave them a "note" in their profile. I just left one for you. Go to "My Home" and you should see notes left by others for you there.

celebrating little

Posted May 15, 2007 at 3:30PM by rockergirrl
www.findbarefootbooks.com

As I mentioned in a previous entry Saturday was the day we had my sons birthday party and it was also the day the first child we lost (who we call little) would have been born. She would have been 7. That morning before the party I went to a plant sale and I bought a forget me not plant to plant in my garden in honor of her. I thought it was a perfect way to silently celebrate her memory. During the party the plant was still in the pot and on my porch. After the party ended we planted it in the garden. I think this will become a new tradition for us on her birthday. It felt good.

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Sticky_Mommy responded May 15, 2007 at 4:51PM

I love my job, it gives me a break from my kids!

And the perfect flower for remembering. XO

dhiya responded July 25, 2007 at 10:10AM

There is always something good waiting...Stay positive...God is with all of us..

LatteMommy responded July 25, 2007 at 11:55AM

LatteMommy

Just remember she is YOUR Angel now watching over you and when you feel down she WILL embrace you. What a wonderful way to celebrate "Little". A beautiful way to to charish the love you lost. Chin up, smile and God Bless You and Your Family.

Sullysmama responded August 8, 2007 at 12:51AM

Gettin' used to this "mom of two" stuff.

I have a friend (not terribly close, but my husband worked for her husband for 6 years, and they're still in touch) who just lost her baby at 35 weeks. They named her Alice, and I would really like to do something to honor her. Do you have any advise as to what made you feel good, and what was too much? It's just such a heartbreaking and unsure time for them right now. Any words from someone who's been there would be appreciated!

rockergirrl responded August 8, 2007 at 1:10PM

www.findbarefootbooks.com

at this point since it just happened I would just be as supportive as you can. The biggest thing for me was that no one really acknowledged my loss as losing a baby since mine was early. It seems much more tragic when a child dies after it has been born. To me it is my baby growing inside of me regardless of what stage it is in. I just remember really appreciating the people who seemed to get that. The ones who pissed me off where the ones who always just said "it was probably for the best." I say for now just be there and be supportive. It is hard for both sides.

Newbee responded August 9, 2007 at 9:57AM

When my husband and I were going through IVF we had both had surgeries to collect his sperm and my eggs. The doctors were able to create 7 embryos. Within 4 days they had all died. The doctors had no reason for it. We felt an incredible loss at that point. In our minds 7 little babies had died. I still get choked up today. It doesn't matter when it happens it still hurts, it is still a life and it is already a part of you. It is unfortunate that people can be so insensitive. I am really sorry for your loss.

Sticky_Mommy responded August 9, 2007 at 5:23PM

I love my job, it gives me a break from my kids!

Sullysmama - when our good friends lost their baby we lived across the country and send flowers and checked in with them by phone. And when my cousin lost their baby early on we also sent flowers. On both acounts we were the only ones to acknowledge their loss.

Just acknowledging that they are going through a hard time can be just the right help and support.

kristasofie responded October 28, 2007 at 10:20PM

Sorry for your loss. You'll never forget your "Little" girl. What a beautiful momento and idea.

More toy gun issues

Posted May 14, 2007 at 4:14PM by rockergirrl
www.findbarefootbooks.com

So there is only a few weeks left of preschool here and I just encountered my second toy gun issue today. Look back at my previous posts for the first one that just happened a few weeks ago. So because of the last issue and because myself and another parent brought up the issue with the director that they do not have "no toy weapons" policy, she sent a paper home with parents last week asking them if they thought the school should put one in action or not. My son went to another preschool in town for a for years before attending this one and they did have one in place. After speaking to others in the community it does seem that most preschools & daycares do have them. Well not this one.

So today I pull in the parking lot and take my kids out of the care to walk into the school. Another child from the class was in the parking lot with his parent and had a toy gun in his hand. He proceeded to point it directly at my child all the way up the staircase, into the building and into the classroom. At one point saying "I am the bad guy" as he pulled the trigger of the toy gun at my son the entire time. By the time we got into the classroom I asked the child to stop pointing the gun at my son. His father was not in the room yet. At this point he was waving it all around and I asked the sub (of course there had to be a sub teacher today) to ask him to put it away. The father did take the toy gun so it was no longer in the classroom.

So do I have a right to be upset here? I was more blown away that a parent would choose to let their child bring this to school right after the last incident and a week after we were asked about a toy gun policy. To me this isn't about the debate of whether or not to allow your child to use toy weapons. It is more about what is appropriate for school and what isn't. I strongly believe they do not have place at school. I guess I am in the minority.

Argh - I think I am just meant to homeschool.

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Sticky_Mommy responded May 14, 2007 at 4:43PM

I love my job, it gives me a break from my kids!

Gross - it's the only word to describe the experience. Why do you have to bring any toys to school unless it’s a share or a lovely? IMO a toy gun is not appropriate at school.

birdiehandmade responded May 16, 2007 at 12:22AM

Schools should be weapons free. Ours has a no weapons policy. It's such a charged issue. Kids don't need them, yet they are obsessed w them. I hate this word count. I'll post a longer message to explain myself.

dhiya responded July 23, 2007 at 11:06AM

I totally agree with U...

Sal's birthday

Posted May 14, 2007 at 8:12AM by rockergirrl
www.findbarefootbooks.com

Two years ago today my littlest guy was born. Today Salvatore turns two!

We celebrated his birthday on Saturday. My parents came up for the event and we also invited a small group of our friends over. The weather was lovely and we were able to be outside. I made a two layer carrot cake with cream cheese frosting. It was yummy. Sal had a wonderful time. He was most amazed by the 15 balloons we bought for him that morning. His only request for the party was balloons and a bowl of booty. He got what he wanted. He received some wonderful gifts from our friends (thank you everyone), a trike from us and our family pitched in with us to buy a swing set for the both of the boys. Because of his older brother we are all set in the toy and book dept so we thought it would be a nice to get a swing set for both of them to use.

Little Sal it has been amazing having you in our lives. You have such a wonderful quiet yet crazy personality. You can sit and get absorbed in a book or digging in your garden spot but there are still many moments when you are only satisfied having me hold you. I will cherish every moment when you walk over to me and desire my arms around you. Your vocabulary has bloomed and it is music to my ears when you speak and show me your world through your words now. The other day when you came up to me, put your arms around my neck and said "I luv mommy" I thought my heart would melt into a puddle on the floor. I think it did.

Thank you sweet boy. Thank you for bringing such joy into my life. Thank you for being a friend and brother to Enzo. Thank you for choosing us.

Happy Birthday little guy. We love you so much.

Tags: birthday

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Losing little

Posted May 11, 2007 at 11:00AM by rockergirrl
www.findbarefootbooks.com

Tomorrow is a bitter sweet day for me. My youngest son turns two on Monday the 14th but we are having his birthday party tomorrow on 5/12. May 12th happens to also be what would have been my oldest child's 7th birthday. I lost the baby when I was 9 weeks pregnant. The loss of this child was devastating to JB and I. We were only a few months into our relationship when I got pregnant. It was through the experience of losing our child that we decided we were meant to be together and got married 8 months later. This child whom we call "little" has always been in our hearts. I am reminded of her every month when I have my period as the blood only brings back the horrible night of the miscarriage. My second child Enzo was ironically born 2 years later to the exact day that we lost little. So every year on his birthday we observe our loss silently by hanging a floral arrangement we make from our garden in her honor. So now comes spring and my third child Sal was born 2 days after what would have been little's birthday. So far we haven't explained little to our other children. In time we will. For now we will cherish these gentle reminders that our other children bring us as they celebrate their birthdays and we silently mourn another.

the picture below is of the roses we placed at Ocean Beach in San Francisco a week after we lost little. We lived a block from this beach at the time and it was very special place to us. We ended getting married up on the cliffs you see in the distance 8 months later. It is hard being on the other side of the country now from this place. Someday I hope to go back.

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Sticky_Mommy responded May 11, 2007 at 12:34AM

I love my job, it gives me a break from my kids!

Oh my heart goes out to you both. I think there is a reason your boys came on the dates they did. Little is watching out for you and her family.

vtmomof2 responded May 11, 2007 at 12:34AM

Life is crazy but wonderful.

I too suffered a miscarriage at 10 weeks pregnant, our son was born 9 months to the day of my miscarriage. It is incredibly devastating to go through a miscarriage and I think this is a really nice way to remember the baby you lost.

birdiehandmade responded May 11, 2007 at 11:59PM

Sending you love sweetie.

Moms Who Rock

Posted May 11, 2007 at 7:43AM by rockergirrl
www.findbarefootbooks.com

Yes it is true. I rockergirrl will be hitting the stage Sunday 6/3 at Higher Ground Music for the Moms Who Rock competition.


Sunday 6/3 MOMS WHO ROCK: Advance Music and Star 92.9 are giving 25 lucky Moms a chance to come out and strut their stuff........from the Moms who secretly sing in their cars, to the shower singers, or maybe even the Moms who sneak out to the Karaoke contests on the weekends, this event gets Moms up on the big stage, singing with a live rock band, in front of a big crowd. This event is a benefit for the Woman's Rape Crisis Center in Burlington. Please come out and show your support for this great cause and the Moms who Rock!

Tags: highergroundmusic, momswhorock

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FrecklQn responded May 11, 2007 at 8:52AM

No Way!!!! This is killer! I can't wait to hear you!!!!

Sticky_Mommy responded May 11, 2007 at 9:07AM

I love my job, it gives me a break from my kids!

Are you kidding me?! So cool. Let me know if you need a back up cow bell-er.

momotogo responded May 11, 2007 at 9:34AM

Did you know you bear a striking resemblence to another rocker mom? Chrissy Hinde of The Pretenders. Ever hear her song I'm a Mother ....it's a hoot.

rockergirrl responded May 11, 2007 at 9:57AM

www.findbarefootbooks.com

Oh I should have said - that picture is not of me. It is the pic used on the higher ground website for the event.

birdiehandmade responded May 11, 2007 at 11:49PM

Good luck mama!

Gardening is great for kids (and you)

Posted May 10, 2007 at 12:47AM by rockergirrl
www.findbarefootbooks.com

Gardening has become a passion of mine. I am very much still a beginner but every year I learn more and more. Much like parenting gardening takes patience and time, and one will never truly master it. Also like parenting you need to take it day by day, provide food, time and care. Gardening istherapeutic for me. If I am having a bad day there is nothing like ripping out weeds to take out my frustration of even the simple act of standing still watering my flowers and taking in their beauty and scents can calm my nerves.

Gardening is also a wonderful activity for children. The act of planting a seed, learning to water it each day and watching it grow is a wonderful lesson for them. My children love helping me plant and water. Every day the run outside to see if any of our seeds have sprouted and when the veggies get big there is nothing better than having them pick right from our garden and then watch me cook them up for dinner. The lessons learned about the earth, where our food comes from and recycling is priceless. My children know that when we rake our leaves we either add them to our compost or bring them to our local center which turns them into compost that we then buy from them to put back into our yards.

Spring has sprung and summer is coming. You don't always have to find summer camps and endless activities to keep your children occupied this summer. Look around you and in your own backyard and you will be amazed at what you can find to do.

If you don't have a yard or live in a city do not fret. Container gardening is just as rewarding. Everything from flowers, herbs and so many vegetables can be grown in containers.

happy digging.

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vtmomof2 responded May 10, 2007 at 1:52PM

Life is crazy but wonderful.

This is so true. My son, daughter and I spend time in our garden each day during the summer, weeding, planting and picking veggies. It is very rewarding.

Sticky_Mommy responded May 10, 2007 at 2:21PM

I love my job, it gives me a break from my kids!

Gardening teaches patience, which is why I am a poor student. But I love the end results. A another good tip for those on a budget and swap clippings from your friends and plant in your yard.

NCGirl22 responded May 10, 2007 at 2:46PM

Here are two great activities I did with my daughter's class a couple of years ago: plant grass seed inside egg shells - they drew faces on them and then trimmed the hair as it grew; plant wheat berries in a tall clear plastic water bottle. The kids loved watching the roots grow!

birdiehandmade responded May 11, 2007 at 11:42PM

Si's been running out every day to check his peas. And with all the rain we just got, tomorrow should be a banner day. We put some cuke seeds in tday. It's early, but if it frosts, I'll just start again on Mem day. I love the garden!

Hand to hold

Posted May 9, 2007 at 8:36AM by rockergirrl
www.findbarefootbooks.com

As I prepare to send my oldest child to Kindergarten this fall I find myself confronting many issues around the idea of letting go. Fall seems so far away but really since school now starts the last week of August it seems already as if my summer is being robbed. Although being home with him all day is challenging, all of a sudden I just don't want to let him go 5 days a week to full time school (we don't have half days here). I know it is good for him, I know he is going to absolutely love school, and I know this is just the first steps of many to come. I can't help myself from getting choked up each time I think about it though. In four short months I will be letting go. Letting go of my little boy into the world of public school. From that day on for the next 12 years he will be spending more time in that building than in my home. I am just simply not ready.

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olivesmama responded May 9, 2007 at 9:21AM

That gave me goosebumps! Olive started school this year in Jan. At first I felt like all I did was feed her and get her in and out of bed but now our time is quality.

mpl11 responded May 9, 2007 at 10:33AM

The first day of school is always tough. The part that got me was the school bus. The school asked the we make our kids ride the bus at least the first, but I really did not like putting her on the bus. As it turned out that was her favorite part of the day.

FrecklQn responded May 9, 2007 at 5:02PM

I feel for you. Just the thought of sending my lady to school in another year makes me hog her every second I can now! Soak it all in, and when he gets on the bus in August, know that you savored every last second of his preschool years, and prepare yourself for all of the new adventures to come!

rockergirrl responded May 9, 2007 at 5:35PM

www.findbarefootbooks.com

thank you everyone for your kind words.

birdiehandmade responded May 9, 2007 at 11:09PM

When my little boy started kindergarten this year, I put a little note telling him that I loved him in his lunch box each day. I don't know if he needed it. He was fine. I was the wreck. He made it through all year and so did I. I want summer to spend time w him now.

Cloth diapers - my experience

Posted May 8, 2007 at 8:10AM by rockergirrl
www.findbarefootbooks.com

In response to Birdiehandmade's question here is my experience with cloth diapers. I went to cloth after the birth of my second child. Here is my original review of my experience for my blog

Cloth diaper review originally written on my blog on 4/26/06

So about a month ago I made the switch to cloth diapers. After spending a few months doing research (you would not believe how many options there are) I decided to buy
Fuzzibunz which is a pocket diaper. After a month of using them here are the highlights of my findings:

1. They are incredibly cute. The color choices are wonderful.
2. Much easier to use than I thought. Diaper changes are just as quick as with a disposable. There are not pins or covers with these diapers. You just pre stuff the diaper with one of the inserts and they are ready to snap on.
3. Washing isn't as bad as I thought. I wash probably about every 3 days or so. I hang them out to dry when possible so I don't end up using the dryer too much. There is no way I am spending in water and electricity what I was spending per month to buy disposables. No way.
4. No more gel balls on my babies skin from the SAPs(Super absorbent polymers)

So there you have it. It is not as hard as it looks. JB was surprised how easy it is too. I am glad I made the jump. It feels sort of liberating (in that hippy kind of a way) to not be dependent on the evil diaper companies any longer.
---------------------------

Update on my experience: The above was written when my son was about 6 months old. At the time I bought size medium Fuzzibunz. He is now about to turn 2 years old in another week and he is still wearing the size medium. They are just now starting to get small but we still have more snaps to move back on.

washing:
I was so afraid of cloth diapering before I made the jump. Washing seemed crazy to me. Here is my system. I have a small house an no room for a large diaper pail so I opted for this hanging diaper bag I hang it in the stairwell to my basement. Wet diapers just get pulled apart and dumped in the diaper bag. For soiled diapers I just scrape the poop off into the toilet, pull the stuffer out of the diaper and put both pieces of the diaper in the hanging diaper bag. I DO NOT dunk diapers. Gettting them wet just creates mold as they sit around in your diaper bag. There is not need to dunk diapers. I washed about every 3 days when he was younger. Now I go through less diapers each day and so I wash more like every 4-5 days. I think I have a stock of about 25 diapers. You can spread this out if you own more.

Pros:
1. I was using Seventh Generation disposibles before switching but they are still filled with SAPs (Super Absorbent Polymers). Even though they were not bleached I still felt that putting human waste in our landfills was beyond disgusting. People might argue that you waste water and energy washing cloth diapers. Yes I use my washing machine but there is no way I am using that much more water. Unfortunatly I have to do laundry anyways so unless you go 100% green and start handwashing all of your laundry I don't think you really can compare.

2. Cost wise I was spending about $40.00/month on disposables. My water and electricity bill has NOT gone up this much by switching to cloth. You can argue with me about the environmental debate but I just do not see how in the end loading up our ground with human waste and diapers that do not break down is a better solution.

3. They smell so much better. Take out one of your disposable diapers, open it up, stick your nose against it and take a deep breath. Disgusting! Also - the gel balls. I don't miss the gel balls that would be on my kids skin every day.

4. Night time diapering has less leaks. I know so many people who make the switch during the day to cloth but still use disposables at night becasue they are afraid of leaks. Our old disposibles leaked WAY more than these do. For night time diapering I stuff my fuzzibunz with two stuffers instead of the one and then I put on a wool cover that I bought here. I use it winter and summer and it works awesome!

ok I think I have gone off long enought here. Let me know if you have any specific questions. I highly reccomend getting this book The Do it Yourself Cloth Diapering Book if you are confused about all the options.

Tags: clothdiapers, fuzzibunz

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Sticky_Mommy responded May 8, 2007 at 8:33AM

I love my job, it gives me a break from my kids!

Great insight on real life usage. We use cloth diapers sometimes and it's easy. We need to use them more as we're going to be dealing with diapers for at least another 1 1/2. What do you do when you're out and about for the day?

rockergirrl responded May 8, 2007 at 11:10AM

www.findbarefootbooks.com

I just use the cloth diapers still. I carry around a waterproof sack thing to put the diapers in if I am out and about.

Yes I am a hippie

Posted May 7, 2007 at 4:50PM by rockergirrl
www.findbarefootbooks.com

I am giddy with joy over our new push lawn mower.

lawn mower fact:

A conventional lawn mower pollutes as much in an hour as 40 late model cars (or as much as as much air pollution as driving a car for 100 miles).

Here is a picture of our new beauty. No more smelly gas mower. No more having to hide the kids in the house when we mow because of spitting rocks and sticks. No more having to wait until our neighbors are awake to mow the lawn. Using a push mower is great exercise too.

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NCGirl22 responded May 7, 2007 at 7:25PM

I bought one of those lawn mowers a few years ago and my husband's reaction was, You've got to be kidding me! He was not impressed :) I liked it though!

ZombieDad responded May 7, 2007 at 9:55PM

ZZZ

I wish I had a lawn to mow. Then I could gripe about what a nice day it is to be fishing and how I'm stuck mowing the lawn.One question - Does it cut the grass?

Misda_Sleep responded May 7, 2007 at 10:00PM

Not only is it eco-friendly, it's also a work of art! Nice photo!

birdiehandmade responded May 7, 2007 at 10:21PM

Congratulations. We've been thinking of getting one of those. I'm kind of thinking of sabotaging our current polluter beast with an accidental trip over some rocks so that I'll have no more lame excuses about why I keep it.

mecjg responded May 8, 2007 at 9:11AM

Can you send me the link where you got that lawn mower fact?

mpl11 responded May 8, 2007 at 3:30PM

I need to replace my current 20 year old lawn boy. How well does it work? I knew someone that bought, but was not happy and return for a motor one.

Headaches

Posted May 5, 2007 at 9:19PM by rockergirrl
www.findbarefootbooks.com

So my big craft show was today. I was so excited to spend the day with adults. I love selling. I love craft shows because they remind me of one of my former jobs in sales doing trade shows. I was up at 6:00am and at the location at 7:15am this morning to set up by spot. Things were going great. Right about the time the show opened I got hit with a major headache. I suffer from daily chronic headaches. Most days I can just go about my day with them. They would stop some people but I am so used to living them my head throbbing that a good day is when I don't have to be on the couch with an icepack. I tried so hard to do all the right things to avoid getting a bad one today. I got good sleep, ate well and drank water. I had just a bit of coffee though which sometimes helps me and other times makes it worse. Today it made it worse. I struggled for 4 hours through the show. I don't remember much of it. If you saw me there and I seemed out of it while I was talking to you I am sorry for that. My head was pounding and I was trying to pretend I was ok. Finally at 2:00 I had to pull the plug, pack up my stuff and go home 3 hours before the show ended. I was so bummed. I worked so hard for this and I had to leave. I just knew at that point I needed to be on the couch with an icepack or it wouldn't get better. Why why why? Why on my one day to be outside of the house doing something I love so much does this happen?

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karriejean responded May 6, 2007 at 9:59AM

Massage therapist, martial artist, butt-kickin' mo

Have you tried massage therapy on your neck? By that I mean deep tissue, the kind that will make you wince and feel really, really great at the same time? If your neck muscles are tight they will cause those types of headaches. Check it out.

birdiehandmade responded May 7, 2007 at 4:14PM

I second the massage suggestion. I had chronic wrist pain that made me unable to use my wrist - absolutely no strength. A physical therapist massaged a muscle knot out of my upper tricep, and I've had no pain since. It was amazing, and so simple. who knew?

vtmomof2 responded May 9, 2007 at 12:22AM

Life is crazy but wonderful.

I use to suffer from really bad migraines and when I was pregnant for my daughter I couldn't take anything. My doctor suggested a chiropractor and it worked wonders for me.

Thankless job

Posted May 4, 2007 at 7:28AM by rockergirrl
www.findbarefootbooks.com

Yesterday I had one of those days where I just felt exhausted, under appreciated and irritated. In the morning we went on a walk/bike ride, came home from that and headed to our neighborhood park. After the park we worked on digging part of our front lawn for a new garden spot. Had lunch, took naps, went to the Coop, Gardeners Supply where the boys picked out the flowers they wanted in our new garden, back home to plant the flowers and then played in back yard. By this time it was 5:00 and I had to go in to make dinner. When my husband came home at 6:00 and was told it was time to come in for dinner my 5 1/2 year old started freaking out telling my husband he hasn't done anything fun all day and wants to play. I was pissed. I was freaking tired from all we had done today and it pissed me off that even when we give give give - the kids are just still not satisfied. It has been a rough week also with my youngest son (almost 2) and his temperament. I told my husband last night that I better be getting a good mothers day gift this year or I go on strike.

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amccrea responded May 4, 2007 at 8:39AM

I would demand a professional massage, flowers and chocolate.

dustbunny responded May 4, 2007 at 9:07AM

dishing the dirt, cleaning the chaos

My day was similar yesterday- it must have been the nice weather. I say, when dad gets home at 6 & the kids would rather play, serve a makshift meal on the back steps or deck and you go for a 25 minute walk. They can deal and you can chill. Then return decompressed and actually happy to see them!

rockergirrl responded May 4, 2007 at 10:14AM

www.findbarefootbooks.com

great ideas

FrecklQn responded May 4, 2007 at 1:10PM

It was a full moon this week. It turns them into monsters.

birdiehandmade responded May 4, 2007 at 5:31PM

Dustbunny - that is such a right on idea! Thanks for reminding us that we can take some time for ourselves.

oneanddone responded May 5, 2007 at 2:57PM

we run in shifts - when i get home from work (even though I am tired - as hard as that may be to believe for some...) I play with our daughter for at least 30 min - and my wife takes a break..then we alternate (bath, books, ect.) until bed

Queen City Craft Bazaar Burlington VT

Posted May 3, 2007 at 8:59AM by rockergirrl
www.findbarefootbooks.com

Hello all Burlington VT families. I am co-producing and participating in the Queen City Craft Bazaar this Saturday 5/5 at Union Station in Burlington. I have a small business called Subsixstudios and I sell handmade jewelry and accessories. The event is family friendly and Viva Espresso Cafe will be onsite seling lots of coffee, tea and local pastries. The event is also co-sponsored by the Burlington Craft Mafia which I am a co-founder of. 7 of our members along with over 30 other vendors will be selling awesome handmade goods.

Come check it out.

Tags: burlingtoncraftmafia, craftshows, queencitycraftbazaar

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Sticky_Mommy responded May 3, 2007 at 10:19AM

I love my job, it gives me a break from my kids!

You had me a coffee. So there. I'm looking forward to picking out my Mother's Day gift.

roundrobin responded May 3, 2007 at 10:47AM

Sounds like a good event. May is a great time of year for this sort of thing!

FrecklQn responded May 3, 2007 at 1:07PM

This handmade jewelry is incredible. I have a few pieces and I LOVE them! It's so nice to buy local, and feel good about indulging on yourself once in a while.

Must have children's music

Posted May 3, 2007 at 7:42AM by rockergirrl
www.findbarefootbooks.com

Music is big in our house. I play the guitar. My kids both have guitars plus a large basket filled with various musical instruments. JB and I are both huge music fans and have a large collection of all kinds of artists. Although we play all kinds of music in our house there are times the kiddies require kid specific music. We have had few in our collection that we break out from time to time. Unfortunately they tend to be quite annoying. The ones we have at least.

Until now . . .
Justin Roberts writes songs that kids love and adults love to listen to. He has a soothing voice, lyrics that kids relate to but are not dumb and melodies that hook even a music fan like me. Justin knows how to write a catchy song and he has caught our family. We are fans for life now.

Start out with Great Big Sun. This was our first CD that we purchased about a year ago. This CD is highly addictive.

I am pushing this guy because I think he is a wonderful musician and a great alternative to the normal children's music. If you have any opportunity to see him play live in your area - go. I am trying like mad to get him to come to my town now.

Tags: music

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birdiehandmade responded May 3, 2007 at 2:11PM

They Might Be Giants makes a wonderful music video for kids with a whole collection of songs. I love watching it as much as the boys do. Also for something really weird, try Gustafer Yellowgold. Google it. He's a NY alt musician who makes this bizarre musical cartoon thing. Very UN DISNEY!

momotogo responded May 4, 2007 at 1:33PM

It might be a little dated, but still very fun. Jerry Garcia & David Grisman did a CD a long time ago called Not for Kids Only. Something everyone can enjoy, especially if you're a fan of bluegrass style music.

toy guns at show & tell

Posted May 2, 2007 at 4:48PM by rockergirrl
www.findbarefootbooks.com

My son's preschool does this thing called the sharing bag. Each kid gets a turn to bring something in from home to share with the class. Like show & tell. Well today one of the kids whips out a toy gun from his sharing bag. The teacher (who was a sub today) was shocked as was I when I found out. What were these parents thinking? I don't care what you choose to let your kids play with at home - why would you think given the recent events that took place at Virginia tech that bringing even a play gun to school for show and tell would be a good idea? Almost more disturbing than this to me was the fact that my son lied to me about it. He was so afraid I would be mad about it that he lied to me and told me the child forgot his sharing bag and had nothing to show today. I am beside myself right now. These are the days I find being a parent is so incredibly hard.

Argh!

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Sticky_Mommy responded May 2, 2007 at 5:19PM

I love my job, it gives me a break from my kids!

WOW - to put in context with Virgina Tech makes it hit home even harder. Oh hell!

olivesmama responded May 2, 2007 at 9:10PM

It's scary!! What is wrong with people? And how are we supposed to protect our babies?!?

oneanddone responded May 2, 2007 at 9:34PM

I guess the only thing to do would be to use it as an opportunity to explain the dangers of guns and to encourage the kids to tell a parent anytime that they see one in school...but until they get harder to come by...

LatteMommy responded May 2, 2007 at 10:52PM

LatteMommy

Oh my. When tragedy happens it should stand as a wake up call to all us parents to slow down & spend extra time w/our children & listen, talk about what's going on w/them & reassure them we are here for them. We need to keep our eyes open & be involved in what is going in their lives these days.

FKB responded May 3, 2007 at 12:01AM

I understand your concern especially at school. But I believe as parents we need to educate our children about guns (or anything)without getting to emotional so they feel comfortable talking to us about these things when they do present themselves. Hang in there!

Mama anxiety

Posted May 2, 2007 at 11:01AM by rockergirrl
www.findbarefootbooks.com

It is amazing what being a mother can do to ones nerves. I remember like it was yesterday having my first child just a month after the attacks of 9/11. I knew at that time I was becoming a first time mother in a new world. One our country had not experienced before. That first year of mother hood was very hard for me. Emotionally I was a wreck. I started experiencing a lot of anxiety because of the world events. It manifested itself in me as health anxiety. I suddenly became terrified that something would happen to me and I would leave my children motherless. At the same time I developed extremely bad headaches which did nothing but fester my fears. I started therapy to help me overcome my anxiety issues. Using cognitive behavioral therapy I was able to move on and live again. I find myself being so afraid of the world sometimes. The war and the insane gun issue in this country just tops it all off for me.

Even at the playground parents are afraid. I watch other parents and see even myself at times hovering over our children every step they take. I was at the park yesterday and there was a family from France there. Two little girls about the age of my oldest (5) and they came right up to us and started playing with my son. It was the cutest thing I had ever seen. There was my son running and playing with two little friends who didn't speak the same language. They would count in french as they all slid down the slide together holding hands. The parents were off to the side pushing their younger children on the swings. Looking over every now and then but for the most part just letting the kids play. Once we said our goodbyes and left I noticed the two young girls running across the field to play with a dog they saw. Again the parents took notice of their whereabouts but did not go after them.

It was amazing to me. Most parents in this country would have been nervous to have their children run around free like that . We are so terrified of everything. Are we really protecting them or stungint their natural need to grown and learn and play? As much as we don't like it we need to step back a bit. If they fall they fall. Is it more damaging to never let them fall?

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Pumpin'

Posted May 2, 2007 at 7:31AM by rockergirrl
www.findbarefootbooks.com

I just found this poem I wrote about 5 years ago. I was working full time after the birth of my first child. The office I worked in only had three single bathrooms for the entire building so I had to sit in one of them to pump two times a day. It was horrible.

Pumpin'

I pump in a bathroom
that is cold and tall
I've had my chair stolen
I now sit on one that is too small
It is humilating and awkward to say the least
and it usually smells of a dying beast
But it is all I have
so two times a day
I lock myself in and pump away.

originally written Sept 2002

Tags: breastfeeding, pumping

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Sticky_Mommy responded May 2, 2007 at 10:06AM

I love my job, it gives me a break from my kids!

That is hell. At my last job I too pumped in bathroom with people knocking on the door to see if I was almost done. Hell.Now I have room to myself with a phone and newspaper access. It's my 15 2X per day for myself (and for Ivan).I pump and drive - is that bad?

momotogo responded May 2, 2007 at 3:29PM

Pump & drive...imagine the face of the trooper that pulls you over. He he he

Introduction to me

Posted May 1, 2007 at 7:01PM by rockergirrl
www.findbarefootbooks.com

Hi everyone.

It basically comes down to this. I am a Mom. I am an attachment parenting, vegetarian, sling wearing, stay at home, artist mama. I like loud music, making jewelry, poetry, photograpy, sewing, pretending I can write songs, playing my guitar and most of all my family. I have not and will not let go of my creativity or individuality. I am me. Trying to find myself on a daily basis.

I have two boys ages 5 1/2 and 2. I quit my job after 9 years with the same company only to find myself busier than ever. Besides raising my two boys I am a jewelry artist www.subsixstudios.com and co-founder of the burlington craft mafia www.burlingtoncraftmafia.com. I am also working towards my Childbirth Education certification.

People often worry that having children will "end" certain parts of their life. Especially if they choose to put their careers on hold to stay home with their children. I have found the exact opposite situation. After leaving my job I was able to finally start paying more attention to the areas of my life I had been too afraid to look at. I am now able to focus much more of my attention and time his part of me. It gives me the break I need, the mental stimulation I crave and much needed socialization.

oh yeah and I am tired too. looking to share my story and learn from other people as well.

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Sticky_Mommy responded May 1, 2007 at 8:16PM

I love my job, it gives me a break from my kids!

Welcome! Can't wait to see what happens next.

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rockergirrl

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