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Welcome to the Sound Off Discussion Board, where parents from all walks of life and all parts of the world come together in one place to share their opinions and thoughts about the question of the week. Please remember that everyone is entitled to their opinion and the freedom to express it. Obscene posts are unwelcome and shall be removed from the board. Please keep in mind that this is a public board. Never post personal information that you would be uncomfortable sharing with others. Comments about this board should be sent to iParenting's Webmaster. Thank you for contributing! If you have a suggestion for the question of the week, send it to feedback@iparenting.com.

This week on Judging Amy, Maxine (Tyne Daly) was told that her soul was malnourished. How do you nourish your soul?

For archived topics, click here.

Julie~ I think you would be great on one of those Latin soap operas. The Drama!!;) I just thought your statement was particularly hilarious, given your frequent "hrrrrmph I'm LEAVING"s. LMAO!
Cherokee
Thursday, January 22, 2004 at 21:35:23 (EST)
Hello all, I was just skimming the boards that are open other than the ones I have posted on and found this board. Quite a different feel on this board:)

I wanted to answer the question that was presented. I nourish my soul by being thankful for the day that lays ahead of me. I have some medical conditions that I have not always been responsible in treating and have now changed my ways(eating right, getting the sleep I need) I always took my medication as I was supposed to but there is more to just taking medication to making yourself well. So each day I have on this earth is a blessing to me. I am so joyful when I see either of my children do something new or even just smile. The little things truly make me happy:)

I am interested to read what others respond to the question.

Have a great night!
Kristin
Thursday, January 22, 2004 at 19:47:25 (EST)
Robert--Nice one!
Julie--If you want to leave, then do so. I think you "left" last month...whatever, just save the drama for goodness sake.
Viewer--Hi. I'm still not sure which "viewer" is which. One works in the fashion/modelling industry, and the other one doesn't. I think the difference is one capitalizes the "V" in their name, and the other doesn't. At any rate, she put herself "out there." Nobody was talking about her at all, until she jumped in with some inane nonsense. We may need to get lives...but what does that say about you? You're READING the forum! Think of another topic of interest and put it out there instead of complaining.
angela
Thursday, January 22, 2004 at 19:36:30 (EST)
Robert-Oh WOW! I'm not surprised.
Cherokee
Thursday, January 22, 2004 at 19:32:44 (EST)
Viewer- Not today I didn't. :0)
Cherokee
Thursday, January 22, 2004 at 19:31:43 (EST)
You are so right MaryJ. Don P. is at least short and to the point. He doesn't go on and on and on like the rest of you. Don't you have anything better to do then talk bad about Saraj? Sheesh! Get a life people!
Viewer
Thursday, January 22, 2004 at 19:27:51 (EST)
I love you guys, I really do but now you ALL are acting like Saraj. You guys can continue your little personal mudfights. I'm going to start searching for a new board that has mature adults posting on it. I know I'm going to tick most of you off, but I am positively fed up with the forum.
Julie
Thursday, January 22, 2004 at 19:09:13 (EST)
Saraj, you put way too much of yourself out there, babe. You're easy to follow and easy to track because you post your name and e.mail enough places for people to find out exactly who you are and the public record tells more. U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Western District of Wisconsin, Chapter 7 Liquidation Bankruptcy, April 28, 2003. Stiff your creditors and take a nice vacation. Let's hope there are no new babies to snuff out when you return.


Robert
Thursday, January 22, 2004 at 19:05:25 (EST)
I was going to ask if anyone thinks that the new Mel Gibson movie The Passion will spur anti-Semitism, but I don't know if the board is mature enough to handle such a question today...
Julie
Thursday, January 22, 2004 at 19:04:44 (EST)
You can bet one thing, Saraj. I'm not afraid of you or your beliefs. I've been through too much and seen too much on my lifetime to be afraid of you.

Observationally, you present yourself as a paragon of assorted virtues -- the socially-conscious mommy who fears that our freedoms are being taken away, the "perfect" mommy who is the only one playing with the kids before basketball, the mommy who all the other kids love because you're fun and you homeschool.

You claim that you can handle any challenge to your beliefs... but in reality, you lose it when you're sufficiently challenged. And you seem to love to resort to nasty, personal commentary about people you've never met. To wit, your "assessment" that Cherokee comes across as a heavy set EMT or you telling her last month that it was time to put down the crack pipe when she disagreed with you about partial birth abortion. Your commentary is particularly nasty when it's women you're answering. Perhaps you're a misogynist at heart.
Cassandra
Thursday, January 22, 2004 at 18:57:57 (EST)
I was wrong. Don P. didn't have to come back for the nastiness to flow. Oh well. Maybe things will be calmer in a couple of weeks.

MaryJ
Thursday, January 22, 2004 at 18:35:21 (EST)
You mentioned your own medical bills you were still paying. The part about God was sarcasm. Your birthing tapes are a fraud. I survive very well, thanx for asking cookie. Nice meltdown you just had for our entertainment.
angela
Thursday, January 22, 2004 at 18:34:35 (EST)
Just needed to add one more LOL! I let my dh read this. he thought it was hilarious. Actually I usually don't brag. I just couldn't **resist** with Saraj though.
Cherokee
Thursday, January 22, 2004 at 18:22:58 (EST)
LMAO Saraj. I'm defensive? Hardly. I don't buy into "religion" I buy into faith. There is a difference. You don't have the openmindedness to accept *that* cookie. I can accept that you don't believe in GOD, I don't and won't accept that you use it as an excuse to justify your actions. Who cares anyway? You made the low blow with my appearance. Maybe you didn't get that I don't really care how you think I look? I'm not out to seduce you lol? (But if I was, I would :0))I just can never pass the opportunity to toot my own horn! LOL! I can afford to.


Cherokee
Thursday, January 22, 2004 at 18:21:09 (EST)
PS..don't miss the opportunity to mention my typos! Come on! We all know that's your style!
Saraj
Thursday, January 22, 2004 at 17:57:18 (EST)
Hey Angie~know your stuff before blurting out nonsense. We don't belive in god, weren't even members of the church that helped us either, it was the PEOPLE who helped, not god. And FYI, not that it's your business, but we DO dontations. And another thing, did it occur to you that our bills were taken care of now? Ofocurse not. You just like ot make things up in your head. Just like my baby wasn't born at home , naturally because his head was "perfect"...LMFAO! May I ask, how exactly do you survive? :-D

--------

Cherokee, you sure sound defensive! Sure, send a picture my way! LSt me be the judge. Not that I care, really, but I'd give you an honest opinion. You up for that? Don't worry about my hair. It was all for the stage, and I loved it...it's growing back now..and anyway, I know numerous babes with overly processed hair. (Me being one of em. ;-)
SO Cherokee...you think being PRO-CHOICE is evil? You'd rather allow the government to make your choices for you? I see something VERY wrong with that. You've been brainwashed by what is most likely a group of religious people..but you would never admit it or see it. I do a lot of good for womyn everywhere. I'll soon be donating my time to the new Planned Parenthood to save them money, I write great articles supporting choice, and the list goes on. You don't like it, well, i don't care. I hope the day soon comes when you will need to make a choice and it's not yours to make. As fare as everything else...I think most people here act like they are in high school again. You have these little groups of people stuck together to support what THEY believe in, and anyone who is different sucks, right? I stick around this baoard because you need to know that there are people out there who don't need a group to stand behind them in order to make a point. You ladies (you know who I mean) have already managed to sacre off at least two decent posters here because of your rudeness. I put up with a lot of **** here, but it just feeds my desires to stay that much more. What a joke, but yet, so satisfying.
I can always count on the religious anti choice freaks to post something crude. Yet, it is such a challenge. Well, sort of.
Saraj
Thursday, January 22, 2004 at 17:54:10 (EST)
Why, thank you Miss Angela :0)
Cherokee
Thursday, January 22, 2004 at 17:21:01 (EST)
Cherokee--Go girl! :)
angela
Thursday, January 22, 2004 at 17:16:32 (EST)
Did take a nap and feel much better~~that was just what I needed.

I think it is so funny how whenever someone makes a point to Saraj, in other words, "calls her" on her antics, that's when the mudslinging starts. Notice, I said, > and she felt the need to comment on my looks. Well, I have seen her..(overprocessed hair sounds like Joan Jett, etc. hmm who would have the hoarse voice--hey Saraj the 80's called, they want their HAIR back LOL)) anyhoo..she has never seen ME. LMAO. She would feel silly making that comment if she had.

Julie, thanks for the props hon, and having my back. And maybe I will just scan a picture of MOI to post somewhere, I'm not too internet savvy, but I could figure it out...

I'm not a goddess, (tho dh thinks so):0) but hardly overweight. I'm 5'7", 130lbs. According to the fire department, that is average. In fact they would prefer I'm a bit heavier, say 135-138. I'm muscle-y, because I had to be for the job. I'm rather proud of my bosom, :0) after Breastfeeding 5 babies I think they look great. I would like to have a better booty. But again, dh does not complain. I have long black hair (to my waist) that got me in trouble alot at work, I had to tie it up all the time or they would make me cut it. I have very blue eyes, I have a very "cherokee" cheekbones, the almond eyes and native nose. I am light complected. Dh says I remind him of Snow White. Well, my point is, all, that I am as beautiful, as I think I am. I am as good an emt/firefighter, as I think I am. And I AM. I have the awards to prove it. So obviously others think I am as well. Does that mean I have an ego, maybe a little. It is a hard job for little pay, the kudos you get is all you get, secondary to thank yous of family of people you save. As far as smoking, never done it. As a cancer survivor, certainly never would start. {{DUH!}}

As far as WOMEN in the EMT field being large, smokers, etc..I can speak for the fire crew I was on..we worked out together, everyone was fit, no one smoked. This job is dirty, grimey, bloody, smelly, very dangerous, ugly, heartbreaking, sexist, and hard on a marriage. It doesn't typically attract the "beautiful people". It might interfere with their pedicure appts. It attracted me, because it challenged me and I have a rescue personality. I have exotic looks and that was difficult working with men with big egos, you have 24 hour shifts in the stationhouse and they were relentless. HAHA ..I am beautiful. I modeled, I competed in amateur body building for a while (which is why I will wait for my beautiful children to decide if they want to). I think that is the only thing left that Saraj has to attack me with. Little does she know, I'm HOT. LOL! I won't back down to her. And I never let a pro-abortion comment slide.

It is a conviction of mine to do that. Deal with it Saraj. Women do as a rule need to be larger in the EMS field, because lifting is difficult when you have low body mass. Also, competition with lots of men. Big Men with Big Muscles. Considering when I tested on a written exam consisting of physics, mechanics, etc. out of 800 candidates (most of whom are men), and passed with a 89%, then took a physical agility test out of 200 (again only 21 women there)that required me do things most women couldn't dream of, and finally was the only woman of the final 40 candidates selected for the fire department during that recruitment, I AM PROUD of what I accomplished. I know you baited the question to draw out this response Saraj and that is ok. Because, you see, no matter what I say in this response could ever compare to the type of person you are and all on this board get that. You stand for alot of evil things. I stand for a lot of good things. I don't believe in anything you stand for, except maybe the stay-at-home momma part. It irks you to end that I challenge it. So you "stoop" as you put it, to my level. LOL. To get my level, you would need to CLIMB baby. Enjoy your vacation. Buhh-bye.
Cherokee
Thursday, January 22, 2004 at 16:47:48 (EST)
P.S. Sarcasm intended.
angela
Thursday, January 22, 2004 at 16:33:10 (EST)
I just had to add a provoking thought from my day....If my son was born with a heart defect, resulting in so many medical bills that I had to take food donations from the church (who's God I don't even believe in)I would use my tax return money to pay some medical bills and make a donation to that church (even if I did not believe in God) instead of going on a week long vacation. That's what I would do, living out hear in the "grown-up" world, where we make responsible decisions. Just my humble thought for the day. :)
angela
Thursday, January 22, 2004 at 16:31:44 (EST)
Cherokee--yep...a good nap tends to cure many ills. Also, I have found a rousing game of "peek-a-boo" with the seven month old tends to cheer me up a bit. :)
angela
Thursday, January 22, 2004 at 16:28:27 (EST)
Kids and I are off to Chuck E Cheeses for the day! It's so nice to have the place to ourselves...

We'll be going on vacation in two weeks. (tax return money!) yippee! So, I may not be posting during that week.

Does anyone know of anyone looking for a lab pup? I have one left. (We're in Wisconsin)

I'll check back later on.

:-)
Saraj
Thursday, January 22, 2004 at 16:05:37 (EST)
Yeah, you're right, Julie. I shouldn't have stooped to her level. Thanks for mentioning it. ;-)
Saraj
Thursday, January 22, 2004 at 15:55:10 (EST)
No I will say one more thing. Saraj, I am flat out tired of your crap. I like the people here and I'm interested in what everyone has to say, even you, but I it is pathetic and immature that the topic can't be on a whole week before you are ready to start throwing mud at everyone. Have you ran out of good insults and now all you can come up with is attempting to insult someone's looks when you've never even seen them before!? You are an immature brat and are seriously in need of taking a time out from this forum.
Julie
Thursday, January 22, 2004 at 15:54:26 (EST)
P.S. Saraj ~ What the heck does Cherokee's weight have to do with anything!? That remark was beyond rude and immature.
Julie
Thursday, January 22, 2004 at 15:43:04 (EST)
Going another round on abortion and/or another round of insulting Saraj will be like milk turned soul for our souls and not very nourishing.
Julie
Thursday, January 22, 2004 at 15:40:18 (EST)
LOL! I meant "I'm NOT saying you are"..but you probably are... I mean all EMT's I have seen fit that personna. All of the EMT womyn...or else they are thin and scaggy looking and they smoke and have a hoarse voice. Why IS that anyway?
---


Saraj
Thursday, January 22, 2004 at 15:11:47 (EST)
Cassandra~ You don't have to be afraid of me. You can address concerns about ME to ME. Deal? Everyone here "spouts." You don't have to like my posts, it's your RIGHT! And anyway, I don't always have time to type up a story book...the topic of gangs is quite boring to me, anyway. I made my opinion heard...simply put.

I wasn't trying to take credit for Kate's speech. Ofcourse, some of you may choose to think so, doesn't bother me one bit.

Cherokee~ You remind me of some heavy set EMT on an ego trip. I'm saying you are, but this is what I gather from your posts, and how you post. Because, that last one made no sense at all. I never said or types anything that required that kind of response from you.

Womyn should not be afraid to discuss abortion. Even if Don P. comes back around. I say "bring him on"!


Saraj
Thursday, January 22, 2004 at 14:59:07 (EST)
Feel better, Cherokee. I personally recommend a nap. ;-)

MaryJ
Thursday, January 22, 2004 at 14:54:33 (EST)
MaryJ~Nope..lol! It's me ;) Not feeling good today and a little slow on the uptake. Good idea.
Cherokee
Thursday, January 22, 2004 at 14:31:45 (EST)
Cherokee,

Angela asked you to play cruise director. I added my "please" in the hope we would get off the Saraj abortion diatribe. That topic usually brings out Don P. and a lot of negativity. Sorry if I was too obscure.

MaryJ
Thursday, January 22, 2004 at 14:27:23 (EST)
Angela~Uh huhh. Gimme me a minute or two. I'll think of something (wink). Maybe longer, I'm a little under the weather today.
Cherokee
Thursday, January 22, 2004 at 14:26:20 (EST)
What I find irritating is that there seems to be little original thought behind most of Saraj's posts. She just seems to spout what someone else (usually NARAL) has said about something and then expects that people will view her as profound and enlightened. And when she does present something original, it proves to be very deep and thought-provoking, such as "Gangs... how unnecessary. How terrible."

Cassandra
Thursday, January 22, 2004 at 14:24:54 (EST)
MaryJ~regarding your post "Please, Cherokee. It is only a matter of time before Don P. shows up"...I don't follow.
Cherokee
Thursday, January 22, 2004 at 14:24:50 (EST)
Cassandra~ you are one sharp cookie! Thanks!
Cherokee
Thursday, January 22, 2004 at 14:07:50 (EST)
Saraj-When I look at what YOU stand for, it makes ME sick.

Gee, Saraj, whatever happened to everybody is different??(please note the sarcasm in my voice)

Oh--it's only when YOUR views are satisfied. LOL!
Cherokee
Thursday, January 22, 2004 at 14:06:49 (EST)
Please, Cherokee. It's only a matter of time before Don P. shows up again.

MaryJ
Thursday, January 22, 2004 at 13:36:25 (EST)
Jenny--Good catch! I thought that *oops it IS someone else's quote and I just forgot to add the quotation marks, (insert eye fluttering here)* sounded familiar too!
Cassandra--Good point.
Cherokee--SIGH...yep! Here we go again! Want to play cruise director again and think of another "fun" topic?
angela
Thursday, January 22, 2004 at 13:34:07 (EST)
Saraj --

I don't care much for Bush, but how did this turn into an insult to Martin Luther King, Jr.? Bush made his appointment on January 16. That was the day AFTER King's actual birthday and three days BEFORE the federal holiday commemorating King. It didn't happen ON any day specifically associated with Dr. King.

Cassandra
Thursday, January 22, 2004 at 13:21:14 (EST)
President Bush is dead set on filling the courts with right wing judges. He sure doesn't get my vote. There is no way I want the clocks turned back on privacy, equal rights, and most importantly...reproductive freedom! I think his appointment on the day it was, was just a repeat of his past ... an insult to MLK Jr.

When I look at what he stands for, it makes me sick.
Saraj
Thursday, January 22, 2004 at 13:02:08 (EST)
Oh brother...
here we go again...:(
Cherokee
Thursday, January 22, 2004 at 12:56:47 (EST)
Absolutely. I remember her speeches clearly! I suppose it may have been more proper to add the " "'s. Here...

"Charles Pickering is a lifelong anti-choice extremist. He spearheaded the Republican Party platform plank calling for a constitutional amendment outlawing a woman’s right to choose and has fought to ban abortion in all instances except to save the life – but not the health -- of the woman."

I, along with other pro-choice americans will most surely remember this when Election Day rolls around.

Saraj
Thursday, January 22, 2004 at 12:43:03 (EST)
Kudos to NARAL Prez Kate Michelman for Saraj's post. Most of it is verbatim from the statement she released on January 16.

Jenny
Thursday, January 22, 2004 at 12:35:35 (EST)
It's Charles PiCkering...
I'm disqusted, actually.
Charles Pickering is a lifelong anti-choice extremist. He spearheaded the Republican Party platform plank calling for a constitutional amendment outlawing a woman’s right to choose and has fought to ban abortion in all instances except to save the life – but not the health -- of the woman. I, along with other pro-choice americans will most surely remember this when Election Day rolls around.





Saraj
Thursday, January 22, 2004 at 12:16:40 (EST)
Interesting view Cherokee. Thanks for answering..
just curious
Thursday, January 22, 2004 at 10:35:49 (EST)
just curious--I support President Bush and am proud of it. I plan to vote for him again. Charles Pickering stood for some pretty bad things what, LIKE 40 YEARS AGO..I think like a lot of old folks, he has probably mellowed. I do not support what Pickering stood for 40 years ago. As long as his views on race and civil rights have changed, I don't have a problem with him being in the federal court of appeals. It isn't like he has any "real" power there anyway. I think it is a token appt. It's *appelate court* for crying out loud.
Cherokee
Thursday, January 22, 2004 at 10:25:49 (EST)
How does everyone feel about President Bush appointing Charles Pinkering to the federal court of appeals????
just curious
Thursday, January 22, 2004 at 10:11:55 (EST)
Saraj - well, we rent, we don't own... although I would love to own this particular property - it has a creek than meanders through it as well.
We have 3 horses, plus there are 5 other horses boarded here. We also have 5 cats.
We used to have a African Grey parot but it died after a long illness this summer. And of course we have our adult mutt, and we are fostering an adult dog for some friends.

There is ALOT of work involved in living on acreage though... especially when boarders are in the picture.

Time to put the little dear away for the night and then... back to homework... I am sure I will be checking back in here to break up the monotony.
Margarita
Wednesday, January 21, 2004 at 23:20:39 (EST)
Margarita~

30 acres...I'm SOOOOO jealous!
Do you have any other animals?
I'd love a few horses, and some (banting?) chickens for fresh breakfast eggs...maybe a little pond and a swan or two. (Oh, and FILLEd with large mouth bass!) Ahhhhhhhh. HEAVEN! :-D


Saraj
Wednesday, January 21, 2004 at 22:32:33 (EST)
Julie - I am glad to hear your niece's seizures seem to be getting under control. What kind of medicine is she on for them? My now 2.5 yr old niece had encephilitis when she was a new born, on top of the fact that she was born premie - she was on l- oh shoot now I can't think! I want to say lithium but I am pretty sure I am getting it mixed up with an element from last quarter's chem class... maybe Kerri or someone could figure out what I mean ;-). Anyhow, she was weaned off a year ago and is doing ok, but I understand the circumstances are different.

Saraj - Samson is a barker, which I understand is not normal for labs. Other than that he is a great puppy. We live on 30 acres and when we are outside he gets to run free. He was getting to run free whenever he wanted to until a few days ago when he started wandering down to the road and then not coming when I whistled. It's a rural road, but I don't want to take any chances. He can go about 10 hours without any accidents, and he is very smart. He sits, lays, shakes, retrieves and stays on command about 80% of the time. He gets too excited when we have company that he sometimes forgets what I am talking about until he settled down a bit. He's actually about one week away from being 6 months old, so I don't know if that is still big or not, he's much bigger than his two litter mates that we see regularly.
Margarita
Wednesday, January 21, 2004 at 20:14:18 (EST)
Kerri-I forgot to answer your question-sorry! The ER is like home to me. I am very used to it. A floor job would be very boring for me, but I realize I will have to pay my dues before being offered an ER spot. I'd also like to do Flight Nursing. I've been on several Airevac rideons as an EMT - WOW..I'm an adrenaline junkie I know. It was really cool. I liked labor and delivery too.
Cherokee
Wednesday, January 21, 2004 at 15:09:07 (EST)
Julie~ It's not about how well THEY look..it's how nice the photo turns out. Even the most beautiful people in the world need good photographers, which another reason I like to enter free photo contests. I 'm really into photography. Last year, for my daughter's dance competition, three of my photos won in different catagories for most photogenic. (I take photos for other parents, too...$10 for two 8X10's..it's a steal.)

As far as modeling... here in Wisconsin, there isn't muchthrough agencies other than print owrk here and there, and if you're lucky, a commercial or two. We have traveled to Chicago for MCDonald's commercial try outs many times, but ther eis sooo much competition. The thing about child modeling..it isn't JUST about decent looks, it's attitude, too. This is where it has helped my kids immensly. And, ofcourse, as I said before, the money! They LOVE getting checks in the mail!

Maybe your kids wouldn't enjoy it, and maybe that would harm their self esteem..but it does wonders for my children!

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

Margarita~ 5 mos at 50 pounds!/ Wow! He's going to a monster! I love it when they are all off balance because thier feet and heads are too large! lol! Is he a good puppy?

We have just ONE puppy running around downstairs today. (They take turns) They are only 4 weeks old, and this little stinker is a handful just alone! He peed on the floor at least 5 times in 1/2 an hour. And pooed twice. We were considering keeping one from this litter, but it's so much work. And we already have two dogs. We need a farmette!
Saraj
Wednesday, January 21, 2004 at 14:37:53 (EST)
Margarita ~ My niece was released from the hospital and is home. My family is still trying to help her relearn how to do many things. No one at this point knows how she will do. She may improve or she may get worse. We just have to wait and see. I do know that the medication she is taking is controlling the siezures. I guess that's something.
Julie
Wednesday, January 21, 2004 at 14:10:59 (EST)
Kerri~ Thanks! I will definitely consider that--my concern is, of course, money! I guess I could just stay in school the extra year and get student loans (trying to pay my way w/out them)but it's only one extra year and you are right it does make sense. Especially when the hospitals here have tuition reimbursements. Obviously I haven't discussed it with an adviser yet or I would have known that. I appreciate the tip.
Cherokee
Wednesday, January 21, 2004 at 13:40:30 (EST)
Cherokee-you made me lol with the standing upside down statement! :)
If at all possible, skip the LPN route and just go directly into an RN program. Many community colleges have programs that take only 2 years. Then, you can get a job, go back to school (on the hospitals bugdet) and get your BSN...then off to graduate school if you so choose!
You must choose what is best for you, but I would definitely skip the LPN thing since you sound like you want "more" than just that license (i.e. going on to NP someday). Plus, my hospital does not even employ LPN's...it is mostly doctor's offices that employ those...at least in my state. The ER needs you!
Good luck with your decision making...
Kerri
Wednesday, January 21, 2004 at 13:34:39 (EST)
Margarita~That is great your dh is considering nursing. When my husband went to college the first time. He was going to major in physical therapy. He has never had a job in the healthcare field though. He has ALL of the prereqs for nursing...and straight A's. But he just can't care for strangers and he realized that. Too bad, we can't combine our experiences. I mean, his school and my experience, I could get into Nursing school pronto..too bad they don't let married couples combine college credits like our checking accounts LOL! I wish I had those credits. Oh well.
Cherokee
Wednesday, January 21, 2004 at 13:21:28 (EST)
Kerri~ you have no idea of how much what you just said means to me!;0) thank you! I have been having some feelings of "big scaredy cat" the last week or so. I think it is that I am feeling *a bit* overwhelmed...my dream is finally coming true as I have waited a long time to complete this goal. I supported my dh while he did the school thing after work, and now it is my turn. I'm a perfectionist and if I don't make straight A's I get upset..I know I need to be realistic. I'm scared, but very excited - does that make sense? You know how competitive it is to get into nursing school. I know people who are getting out of firefighting and going into nursing (less danger = more $$)who have been waiting two years to get into school. I'm going to get my LPN, start working in the field while I get my RN, work while getting my BSN, then on to MSN to get by FNP. Whew!

I was a very fearless woman for many years in a risky job, facing fire, etc, used to sky dive, etc...now I'm getting so conservative! Am I getting old?

No..ttc is not on hold. It has never taken this long to conceive before, I don't think it is going to happen, but we will keep at it. (Just a *feeling* I have, but strangely at peace about it). If God means it to be it will. At any rate, we are stopping in May, regardless. I'm doing everything I can on my end...practically hanging myself upside down after baby dancing LOL.

Margarita~ Yes! Two of my classes are online. Two I have to go to class but they are at night. My first two classes start in 10 days..the other two start later in the semester. This is helping me adjust to the full time schedule more easily. We have Rio Salado Community College here, which has links to all the Maricopa Colleges (South Mountain is included and where I buy my books!) Online classes are helpful, but difficult because I have a hard time "letting go" of chores around here. I bet none of you figured out that I have a controlling, take charge personality yet huh? LOL! It comes from being on my own for so much of my life (no sob story here, just the way it was). I appreciate the encouragement. Thanks!:0)
Cherokee
Wednesday, January 21, 2004 at 13:16:26 (EST)
Cherokee - I also wanted to add that I completely understand about the head of household thing. In the past I have been the mai breadwinner, and also in charge of bookeeping and basically running the house. My dh is now the main breadwinner, but he doesn't really take responsibility as head of household, which I sometimes wish he would, or at least a more equal part of it ;-).

My community college has a wonderful LPN/RN program that my dh may look into if he isn't able to get the type of maritime job he wants. He will probably, short of some miracle, have to wait until I finish school though - I looked at the schedule for him and just too much conflict with his job.
Margarita
Wednesday, January 21, 2004 at 13:01:03 (EST)
Julie - welcome back. That sounds very similar to what we were trying to explain: the trinity where Father God, Jesus the Son, and the Holy Spirit are all the same but also seperate. I don't try to explain it to people because I am just coming into really understanding it myself and I don't want to misinform anyone. How is your little neice doing?

Cherokee - I used to like tequila in my "younger days" - I would straight shot it about 21 years of age. I don't know what happened although I just don't care to drink much anymore period. Occasionally I will have a beer or a glass of wine but I can't even remember the last time I had a mixed drink. I can't remember the last time I had a beer or wine for that matter ;-)
I hated the idea of putting dd in daycare while I attended my on-campus classes. But as she is as only child and we don't have many friends with kids her age (they are mostly 5 and older) she has really benefited from being in there. She is only there 1 hour a day, three days a week (my sisters take her on Tuesdays and Thursdays) and she always looks forward to going. They are really good to her, one of the girls in particular always tells her that she loves her and gives her hugs. Dd often tells me at home that "J loves me and I love J." But, you have a lot more kids than I do... I take whatever classes I can online through washington online/blackboard. This option is also available at South MOuntain (did I remember it right) Community College - I noticed when I was emailing my old history instructor. You can do the work whenever you want but you need to have good time management otherwise at the end of the quarter you will be hating yourself.
Saraj - I don't know what the official procedure is - when my sister bred her dog, the stud came to there house. He was owned be a friend though. He has won some awards and my sister's dog has really good bloodlines with champions in them. I feel guilty about all the unwanted dogs too, which is why Samson will probably never have the chance to be a dad. He is only 5 months old, already weighs in excess of 50 pounds (and is lean, not fat). He has a very pretty head. I usually like the boxier heads like my dad's dog, but Samson's is sort of in between and he has very pretty eyes. His feet still look disproportionately large and his knees are huge so I am starting to have concerns about just how big this guy is going to get. We would have preferred a blond one, but they were all snapped up (only 2 in a 9 pup litter) right away.

Well, dd is finally up, after waking in the middle of the night, and ready for breakfast.
Margarita
Wednesday, January 21, 2004 at 12:49:30 (EST)
Way to GO Cherokee! I think that is great that you are going to be going to school full speed ahead! Does this mean TTC is on "hold"?
What area are you looking to work in once you get that RN? I must say you would be an asset to our ER unit if you lived in IL! :)
Kerri
Wednesday, January 21, 2004 at 12:48:58 (EST)
Teresa ~ Your son will likely cope just fine. I was worried when my children changed schools but they made friends very quickly. In fact, they liked their new school better. It may help if you are able to keep in touch with some of his friends from the previous school. You may also want to get some children's books from the library to read to your son on the subject. My daughter had a book about going to a new school when we moved and it helped a lot.
Julie
Wednesday, January 21, 2004 at 12:47:30 (EST)
Julie~Wow! You already have your refund back?! I bet that was nice! :) We are still waiting on the tax info. for my retirement account at work, and have been chomping at the bit to do our return. Turbo Tax is all loaded, and ready to go! We've been needing a new computer for a long time~~ours is an old dinosaur at home, but it seems like every time we save a few $$ to buy one, that money is needed for something else....go figure with three children huh? ;) Hopefully, our return will be large enough to enable us to purchase one this year...then again, I never got that luxury cruise I wanted for my honeymoon all those years ago...lol!
angela
Wednesday, January 21, 2004 at 12:41:34 (EST)
Saraj ~ You are against public schooling, religion, but will gladly have your children participate in contests were children are judged on how well they look!? This doesn't enhance their self-esteem, it destroys it. Again, IMHO.
Julie
Wednesday, January 21, 2004 at 12:34:42 (EST)
To In Need of Advice ~ My advice to you is to talk to your daughter and find out all that you can. Assure her that she will not get in trouble. You may even want to involve a psychologist. If there is something going on, this child needs to get away from that man, like yesterday! It is also possible to make an anonymous call to child services. You could discuss your concerns with a lawyer and find out what you can do to change the visitation. You have the God given right to protect your child. Do not be afraid to take action! My prayers are with you.
Julie
Wednesday, January 21, 2004 at 12:26:53 (EST)
To Please Answer Margarita ~
Some people here have said that Jesus is not God, but was God's son. This completely differs from what the Baptists at my church believe. They beleive that Jesus is God but at the same time is separate from God. They believe that Jesus existed from the beginning of time. And since he is God, he did make his mother Mary. But God the Father also made him. Even more confused now? Don't worry, I've been trying to sort it out for years.
Julie
Wednesday, January 21, 2004 at 12:15:08 (EST)
Hello everyone!
We got our tax return back and was able to get a moniter earlier than expected. I'm working on getting caught up on the conversation. There's a lot to catch up with here! lol I noticed that you aren't able to get to the archives. I wanted to check and see if anyone celebrated my temporary leave of absence. ;)

As for nourishing my soul, I am on a journey to discover which religion best expresses what I believe. My spiritual beliefs have always been a hodgepodge of different beliefs, but I feel it's time I finally figured out what spiritual path I want to walk.
Sometimes I will just stop whatever I'm doing and watch my children. Music nourishes my soul. I love all different kinds. Feeling my unborn child kicking is very nourishing. I love being in nature. I could go on and on.

As for nourishing my childrens' soul, I take them to church every Sunday. They go to Sunday school. My dh runs a church boys program that our son participates in. My son is also very interested in reading the Bible. He's only 10. I play with them. We sing songs together. My mother-in-law gets together every month to celebrate the family birthdays for that month. There are 17 grandchildren plus her grown children and spouses, so we get together very often. This nourishes my soul as well! My kids love playing outside and I encourage them to do this often. They also love to draw and write stories. I could go on and on here too! lol
Julie
Wednesday, January 21, 2004 at 12:06:10 (EST)
teresa~ Just try talking to him. And, maybe try to keep everything else running as smoothly and as "normal" as possible. Kids usually adjust real well. Time will heal.

--------

Margarita~ You're not kidding! We clean the whelping box two times a day. She only had 7 this time...compared to 9 last time, so it is a LITTLE easier. I really enjoy breeding/raising pups/selling them. It's great to see the pups grow in photos I get from some of the buyers. Ofcourse doggie populations are high, and I feel a little guilty. And our yellow lab is cute, but she's field trial (the Amercican Standard style lab) and so many people want the big boxy headed labs.

When you stud a sire...is it normal for him to go to the dams home? Or vica versa? Or is there not set "rule"?
Saraj
Wednesday, January 21, 2004 at 10:59:21 (EST)
Teresa~Wow! poor little guy. His head is probably spinning from all of that moving around. Usually children are a lot more resilient than we give them credit for. Are you talking to him about the move and letting him know age appropriate details? It has always been my experience with kids that age that if you talk with them about what is going on and make them feel like they are part of the process, they accept it a little better. At 5 he should be able to understand alot of it. If he doesn't respond very well, maybe ask your family practioner for some pointers? Best of luck!:0)
Cherokee
Wednesday, January 21, 2004 at 10:52:31 (EST)
Margarita~sorry you are still feeling ill hon. Don't rule out the strep thing, it doesn't always start out strep, but can work it's way into it. I think it is a good idea if you do be seen in the clinic. Can they do a rapid strep test there? They are *usually* pretty conclusive. Anyhoo...hope ya feel better!

I am very nervous about school this semester. I'm sure a few other posters will LOVE this: I'll be on the board ALOT less...my dh has finally committed to me going to school full time. I know that may sound a bit sexist. But I am proud that we have the kind of relationship we do...my husband is the head of the household and a strong man. I've only had me to lean on my whole life, and finally I get to lean on someone else. We are both very particular about not putting our children in daycare. We are trying very hard to make a schedule at home to where one of us is always here and available to our kids. So far it is working. But...with more classes and assignments, it requires more from papi. Papi already has alot on this plate with his job...So I finally got the thumbs up. We had to make sure the timing was perfect. Also, we worked it into our budget to have the house professionally cleaned twice a month. That is going to take more stress off us, then we just do the maintenance inbetween the major cleanings. He agreed to handle all of the laundry. I have almost completely phased out my dacare business and I am happy with that decision. Now it is all up to me. I gotta get the grades. Nursing school is so darned competitive out here.

BTW - I LOVE tequila. Good thing too...being married to a Latino man.:0)I usually allow myself 2 drinks per month. They are usually.....peach or strawberry/melon margaritas!Last month I tried cosmopolitan/appletinis which were yummy also. I don't drink frequently because there is a very high incidence of alcoholism in my family. So I just don't "go there".




Cherokee
Wednesday, January 21, 2004 at 10:46:26 (EST)
i have a question .i have a 5 year old son who started kindergarden at the first of the school year .ok i took him to a school out of our distric for pre-school and so at his kindergarden year i wanted him in this same school because, of not wanting him to go through the change of getting use to another school .well this school let me to know it was over crowed and he could not attend .ok so we changed (something my 5 year old dosnt do very well even at home )so now their going to shut down this elem. school and put a middle school here and now half of this school has room at this school i tried to enroll my son in the first place .i need some info on how to help my little one cope with change again thank you
teresa
email: hts365@setel.com
Wednesday, January 21, 2004 at 08:41:54 (EST)
Aww, you guys... thanks for the support. Running a household with this many pets and trying to work, do school and take care of dd in the way I feel I should can be a bit much some days. LOl the laundry got folded, but not all of it put away - dd wanted my attention and she won out. I have done about 1/3 of my homework so far though... I don't think it is all getting done tonight - doesn't NEED to be done until Friday. The pet situation will improve a bit once dh finishes the "kennel" (it's bigger than alot of people's yards) for the dogs to be in when we aren't home or can't be outside with them. Right now all three of them are in our back entry hall unless we can be out with them.
Saraj - a litter of puppies is hard work - my sister and her dh had one this summer (one of the little loves makes his home here now) and my sister said between the vet bills, stud fee, plus her time (cleaning the box out daily, supervising them at exercise, etc) they just sort of broke even. These were labs also. She suggested we stud our pup out when he is grown as it is a lot easier. I think we'll just have him nuetered though - even though he is awful handsome and knows just what to do.

Cherokee - I still have that darn sore throat. I don't think it is strep - I've had that before. I don't think it is just allergies either though - who knows. Guess if it doesn't go away soon I'll have to go to the clinic and get it checked out. My ears don't "itch" as much now and don't hurt along with my throat so that's good. I just made a little sock filled with rice, green lentils, dry oats, and a little mint extract. Put it in the microwave for a moment and it is relieving things a bit - nice moist heat that smells like mint.
Thanks again for the encouragement, today was just one of those "does it ever end" type days.... now WHERE is my margarita? LOL j/k I hate tequila!
Margarita
Wednesday, January 21, 2004 at 00:58:09 (EST)
Margarita~ You work hard all day, too. Hubby gets a break at work! ;-) My hubby can't handle the house and the kids and the dogs just over the weekend! It's tough sometimes.
Saraj
Tuesday, January 20, 2004 at 23:43:19 (EST)
Angela and Bonita-thank you for sharing your stories with me. It really helps to be reminded that I need to be there in her life, more than taking the back burner. Like I mentioned before...the ADHD (without meds) makes her VERY difficult to deal with. A lot of it also has to do with the fact she cannot keep a friend more than a week (being without meds). There are times when I go into my bedroom to "avoid" her because I am scared I am going to say something I might regret. I don't always get to do this since my husband works many evenings and nights, but nonetheless, I need to stop it. And like one of the posts said, it IS very hard to not talk bad about her mother when she is constantly letting her down on a monthly basis...whether it be a skipped visit, telling her she cannot read at her house or ours...yes, she "grounded" her from reading Harry Potter at BOTH houses! We did not agree with this, so we told her she is more than welcome to READ that book if she wants. But due to extreme fear that her mother would "find out" she didn't want to read it. How pathetic is that? She has nothing but fear of her mother and step-dad. So my sister in law went out and bought her the book and told her it would "hurt her feelings if she didn't read it". So she started reading it, but made us PROMISE we wouldn't tell her mother.
As for the stepdad having gang affiliations, I seriously doubt it. The guy, to us, appears to be the typical "dork" from high school who tried in earnest to be "popular" and instead was the antithesis of it. He is a short overweight white guy who smokes and likes his tatoos and piercings. (sort of gives you an idea of how his ex-wife took a step down in husbands).
Thank you again for your suggestions, especially the social worker!
in need of advice
Tuesday, January 20, 2004 at 21:02:48 (EST)
Margarita~NO! You are one hard-working momma and deserve a gripe hear and there! You've got my props!:)
Cherokee
Tuesday, January 20, 2004 at 20:57:48 (EST)
I definitely agree that ADHD and ADD is all too easy to offer as a solution in children.
My nephew has Tourette's (I think I spelled that wrong) which is similar to ADD/ADHD. My sister and her husband are treating it via diet.
Talk about depressing... dinners done, dishes are washed, floors are swept... now I have a small mountain of laundry to fold and put away before getting dd ready for bed and then, doing (yet more) homework. If dh gets home soon he will probably pitch in a bit, but he has been working hard all day so he's likely to be tired. Am I being a baby or what? ;0)
Margarita
Tuesday, January 20, 2004 at 20:41:55 (EST)
What a messed up world we live in. Gangs...how unneccessary. How terrible.

Not sure about the ADHD. I think it is all too often an easy fix for doctors/schools/etc to label. And if it's real, I think it's vaccine related.

Saraj
Tuesday, January 20, 2004 at 20:08:32 (EST)
Angela...Vegas for a much needed rest with my husband.
Glad to be back though...I missed my girls, although they had fun with their oldest sister.
Bonita
email: muzicdiva777@hotmail.com
Tuesday, January 20, 2004 at 17:46:56 (EST)
Bonita--Well said!!!! I was wondering where you were...glad to "see" you.
angela
Tuesday, January 20, 2004 at 17:44:13 (EST)
Hi everyone!
In need of advice...Your reference to gangrape and "training"...that is a GANG term. This is how many girls are initiated into gangs. Sounds to me like this stepfather has gang-affiliations that need to be checked into. And showing that child their pictures is sexual abuse in itself. My 17 year old is ADHD. I went through years of anguish when her emotionally and verbally abusive father kicked her out and sent her to live with me. The state put her on mental meds that only increased the problems...including making her angrier and more depressed. When I met my new husband, she was in a group home for beating myself and one of her sisters up. The biggest strain we had was my embarrassment over her actions and not talking. When I opened up to him, he not only listened, but gave me a venue to vent my feelings. He came with me to the group home and juvenile to see her. He immediately became the father she needed. He laid down the rules...no hitting mom, curfew, no cussing, no drugs, alcohol or smoking. He told her that he was giving her a clean slate, but she would have to earn the trust that went with it. He told her he understood...he was wild as a teenager, but grew up when he had to accept responsibility for his own actions. That was almost 1 and 1/2 years ago that they first met. Now she is a different young woman. At 17, she asks his advice, cries on his shoulder, doesn't use drugs, alcohol or smoke, she isn't a member of any gang anymore, and she has learned to talk when she is angry instead of swinging. There are no more mental meds, which has been a blessing. I refuse them, and I can see a difference in her without them. She loves her stepdad, preferring to call him dad over her real dad. There are still rough edges. We have sent her to bootcamp to instill discipline in her life, and she has joined NJROTC because of it. She is a more confident and loving person. We don't allow the words, "I can't" to be used in our home, and we talk over and agree on all disciplinary issues before we put them into actions. We listen and expect the girls to listen as well. We don't allow them to badmouth each other, including calling names, and we don't do it either. We hug and make up whenever we have a disagreement, and make sure the girls see the "I'm sorrys" and "I love yous". We try to build up their strong points and overlook their weaknesses. We try not to be judgemental of them, but we do try to set the value system, such as no dating guys who dress like thugs. It isn't easy, because you always feel like you're being the bad guy, but it has worked. Others have noticed an improvement in their actions and self-esteem. My 17 year old is dating a marine, who comes over to our house for dinner, dresses nicely, and treats her with the same respect that my husband shows to me and my daughters. I know where that little girl is coming from. I was molested by 2 brothers as a child, and was physically, emotionally, and verbally abused by my father. I don't remember hearing my parents say "I love you" once to me in all the years they were alive. Then after 2 failed marriages, due to physical, mental, emotional, and verbal abuse from my exes, I began to rethink my life. I stayed single 5 years...walked daily on the beach 8 to 15 miles...got my life back in touch with God...and found a job in theater where I made friends who constantly built me up instead of tearing me down. Each day I would walk to the end of a pier and mentally through all my hurts and worries into the ocean. I listened to music that was uplifting, and kept a journal. I wrote about what I wanted in my life, and if a man was to come along again what I expected him to be like. I made a list of questions that I would ask to find out how anyone I dated really was like. One of these was..."What is the difference between having sex and making love?" All of this fed my malnourished soul, and rebuilt my confidence, even writing poetry and lyrics about my feelings. It worked. My new husband is the man who fits the list, and was the only one who could answer the questions the way I believed they should be answered. Funny thing is he answered them without me asking him them. I still work theater, in fact with Jr. Highers now. I've written many musicals and have had some of my poetry published. I wake up with a smile upon my face, and love in my heart each day now. I take as many moments as possible to share that love with my husband and children.
My suggestion...Love this little one. Find ways to compliment her good points every day. Give her a journal to write or draw her feelings in. Find things that she is good at and encourage them. For me it was writing, singing and drama. For my oldest it was dance, business and drama. For my 17 year old it is Forensic Science and Poetry. For my 4 year old it is singing, art, and comedy. For each of my girls there is a multitude of things we find that we can encourage and help them work on. You can do the same. Last...Listen...Listen...Listen. When she is down...do what you would do for yourself...a day of beauty treatments and shopping. It will help you both. When she feels she looks great, inside she will feel great. Don't ever give up on her...but remember a date night for you and your husband will help you two get through the hard times with the little girl, and finding time to talk through things with your husband instead of letting them build up.
Bonita
email: muzicdiva777@hotmail.com
Tuesday, January 20, 2004 at 17:34:33 (EST)
In need of advice - I have no experience in this area and no advice to offer for fear that it wouldn't be the best advice. I am sorry for your situation and hope it is resolved in the best possible way.

Shawanda - thank you so much for your info and time.

I did my first classroom observation today - it was so fun. I did 4 hours with 2 different teachers, different subjects as well. Their teaching styles were so different. I have alot to write about in my reports...

On the contest: what I meant by "not the mesasge we want to send" has nothing to do with a big head, etc because I do think that can be resolved with good parenting. However, at this young age we feel we would rather let her know she is admired by people for her mind and her actions rather than how she looks or how she acts for the camera. Later when she is more mature, if she chooses to become interested in that type of hobby, we will certainly support her. Self confidence is a wonderful thing, but I would rather she would feel confident in her mind and her ability to speak intelligently and be subjective, rather than confidence in her looks. I do think that handeling money is important - I learned from being paid an allowance from my parents for help in doing chores above my parents' normal expectations. As a teen, I both worked at McDonald's and played housekeeper for my parents, for which they paid me very well. In addition, they provided me with necessities and small luxuries, but anything other than what they provided I had to pay for myself (unless it was Christmas or a birthday). I thank them all the time for this now, because I had the ability to budget my money and save for things at a young age (I bought my first real sterio with CD player - an AIWA - when I was 16 (CD players were new then) for $500 that I saved and budgeted for all by myself. I paid for trips, etc. Hopefully we will do as well showing our daughter the value of hard work and money. Ok, got a little convoluted there ;-) what's new though.
Margarita
Tuesday, January 20, 2004 at 17:04:31 (EST)
We aren't country music fans. Well, my hubby is, to a point. He likes those mushy songs. The tear jerkers. ;-)

The kids and I prefer rock and roll. Primer 55, Puddle of Mudd, Pink...a lot of the new stuff. :-) In fact, my daughter picked a cool r+r song for dance competition (her solo) this year. A song from No Doubt~I'm Just a Girl. I love her music tastes! I also like Horowitz and the Moodly Blues. ;-)

-----------
in need...Sorry to hear about the verbal and emotional abuse. That can be just as bad as physical. Hope it all goes well. :-(

---
Someone is coming to buy one of our lab pups. It's SO SO hard to see them go!

Saraj
Tuesday, January 20, 2004 at 16:57:32 (EST)
In Need of Advice--Actually, yes you can. Verbal/Emotional abuse is not taken lightly in the Family Court System either. I would suggest, if you and the child's father feel there is a legitimate reason for concern, to start documenting, documenting, documenting. If it ever came down to a case in Family Court, you would be best served to have dates, times, direct quotes, etc. Not he said/she said.
Also, I would suggest that the "don't ask, don't tell" type of policy between the two homes be revisited. A child needs to know she is safe talking between her primary caregivers. Also, it is very good for a child to know that her parents are communicating with each other where he/she is concerned.
Finally, as much as you care for this child, and feel this is your business--you have made the child's father aware of your concerns. He needs to "take the ball" now as far as the child's welfare is concerned, and you as the step-mother need to stand back a bit. As much as you know that the girl's mother is unstable as a parent (hence your hubby having primary physical custody), you would be doing the child a disservice by telling her ANYTHING negative about her mother. Children love their mothers, regardless of ANYTHING they do to the child. You could turn out being the "bad guy" in your sd's opinion. I am a Social Worker too, and I have seen some terrible mothers--but their babies always love them. You would do best to let your sd know you are ALWAYS there to listen to her...also, when it comes to her well being, there should be no secrets made, nor kept, from her father.
Finally, many judges are very reluctant to sever all visitation by one parent, so if you were to petition the court for this, you would really need some powerful information to back it up. Like Vanessa told you, your sd would probably benifit greatly from seeing a trained child counsellor, who could also report to the Family Court Judge if the situation ever arose. Hang in there, and remember...you all need to love the child, more than you hate the mother and stepfather (wisdom from Judge Judy! :))
angela
Tuesday, January 20, 2004 at 14:18:33 (EST)
In Need of advice-oh, that makes me sad. :(
Cherokee
Tuesday, January 20, 2004 at 14:07:35 (EST)
Vanessa et al-thank you for your suggestion of gently asking my sd directly regarding her step father. I did so yesterday and was relieved to find out that he has told her many times that if he "lays a hand on her, that her dad would send him to jail"...pretty accurate! I guess he many times has wanted to smack her due to her talking back to him.
So, he just verbally/emotionally abuses her. Unfortunately, I don't think there is much you can do about that one. :(
in need of advice
Tuesday, January 20, 2004 at 13:53:33 (EST)
MaryJ--THANK YOU! :)
angela
Tuesday, January 20, 2004 at 13:52:37 (EST)
Angela --

That's "Back Seat of a Greyhound Buss" by Sara Evans.

MaryJ
Tuesday, January 20, 2004 at 13:48:38 (EST)
SH--I think that is the CD with "In My Daughter's Eyes." Absolutely beautiful! I really like Country Music too. Also, "Concrete Angel" is a really emotional song--also beautiful. I have a question for you--who sings the song that goes something like "She wore a dress with cherries on it..." it goes on to "in the back seat of a Greyhound bus, her heart so full that it could bust, looking at the rest of her life", etc. I fell in love with that song when I was pregnant with our littlest daughter, and now for the life of me cannot remember who sings it! I think it may be a new artist, but I'm not sure.

angela
Tuesday, January 20, 2004 at 13:35:03 (EST)
SH~~YES! LOVE Martina McBride! Doesn't she have a song about being blessed? Love her.
Cherokee
Tuesday, January 20, 2004 at 12:44:56 (EST)
To noursih my soul I take a long, warm bubble bath, listen to my favourite worship CD or Martina McBride's newest CD and sing along and "feel" the words. I always come out feeling refreshed, renewed, and ready to take on the world again.

Any of you out there who like country music and believe in God (yes, the Divine, one and only true God), get the CD, you'll love it. It's not worship music, but her belief in God and her love for her children really shine through her latest album.
SH
Tuesday, January 20, 2004 at 12:04:53 (EST)
Magarita,

Well, the time spent oconus depends entirely upon the needs of the military.

However, the maximum with accompanied dependents is a 3 year tour, unless he decided to reup at the location and stay longer. Then it can be up to 6 years.


So, the answer to your questions is 3 years; predicated on the needs of the Army.

It's a voluntary Army, but once enlisted; all punches are called by Uncle Sam.

Shawanda
Tuesday, January 20, 2004 at 11:51:28 (EST)
Wanted to add...about being stuck on themselves...my kids are incredibly laid back and fun. In fact , the opposite of being stuck on themselves. Although, I dont think an extremely high self esteem is a terrible thing. I suppose it CAN be, but my point is that my kids are in that field of work, and are not anything like that. Again, I think it all boils down to the parents.
My kids pretty much decide for themselves if they want to work or not. They don't have to model, I introduced them to it, and they can decide of they want to continue. They do want to. The money is the draw. And that's a good thing!
Saraj
Tuesday, January 20, 2004 at 11:44:58 (EST)
About the photos...I guess it all depends on the parents. My kids model (I realize this is a different subject, but on the same line), and it has done a lot for their self esteem. My son did a Culver's commercial a few summers ago, and he really got a kick out of seeing himself on tv. My daughter is the most busy, and she started out shy and quiet. Now she can bring herself to ask questions in a professional atmosphere. I alos like the fact that they get checks in the mail in their own names, and they are in almost 100% control of their own savings accounts. It really prepares them for the future~ first hand.

The photo contests are just for fun. I like to enter them if there is a prize involved. It's so fun to get something you win in the mail! :-)
I'm kind of a contest junkie.


Saraj
Tuesday, January 20, 2004 at 11:41:14 (EST)
I'm with you Margarita. I was in a few catalogs in my preteen years and it is pretty hard to come out of it "unscathed". Those kids were SO stuck on themselves. I'm not sayin all kids in that industry are like it that, I mean, there is a poster on the board who used to be big in that industry (viewer I think?)and she seems pretty down to earth, but I just don't buy into that for my kids. The message I want for my kids is different, I mean. Am I making sense...I think I need to just finish my coffee.;) Good Morning!
Cherokee
Tuesday, January 20, 2004 at 09:04:44 (EST)
No, I didn't send any photos of my daughter in for the contest - it wouldn't be fair ;-) just kidding, but doesn't every parent think their kids are the most beautiful? I'm not sure what the contest is even for. Dh and I have an agreement not to enter her into stuff like that because we think it sends the wrong message to her.

PBJ, LH - where have you all been? Missing you here.
Margarita
Monday, January 19, 2004 at 23:10:41 (EST)
Just curious...any of you send your child's photos in for the contests? It seems there is quite a waiting list. Wow.
Saraj
Monday, January 19, 2004 at 22:18:34 (EST)
Margarita~ I don't label myself. ;-)

angela~How old are you? ANyway, yes, I worked for the DNR for two years. Then I had babies! :-) Thanks for askin'. XXXXXOOOOO
Saraj
Monday, January 19, 2004 at 22:16:19 (EST)
'I AM WHO I AM BECAUSE I AM"~~didn't God say that to Moses? (or something like that?)
Cherokee
Monday, January 19, 2004 at 20:23:55 (EST)
Margarita~ you had it mostly right lol! it should be MIS amigas. Mi is 'my' in the singular, when you are claiming possession of pluralized nouns, it becomes mis. I always screwed it up in Spanish class. I finally got marked off on it enough that I remember it now :0)
Cherokee
Monday, January 19, 2004 at 19:22:11 (EST)
I was just curious Saraj - do you consider yourself a feminist? I am pretty sure you do, but somehow I get the feeling that you don't find many women very intelligent. Perhaps it is the burden of trying to communicate online or perhaps it is a correct understanding.
Margarita
Monday, January 19, 2004 at 19:15:14 (EST)
Cherokee - One time I wasn't allowed to sign an online guest book because my last name contains that particular body part name. Funny eh?

Saraj - sorry I tried to explain why some people might care. You must have missed it.

Hasta luega mi amigas! (Is that right Cherokee - Spanish was a subject I scraped by in - verb conjugating... )
Margarita
Monday, January 19, 2004 at 19:11:13 (EST)
Cherokee--Yep! Drunks are a joy in my line of work too. I like doing a home visit and if they aren't trying to grab body parts, they're trying to slug me. :) I do home visits for vulnerable adults also, and have had to call EMS a few times. It can be very sad, but then again...some of those older people can be every bit as "feisty" as anybody else. ;)
angela
Monday, January 19, 2004 at 18:39:56 (EST)
Hey Angela! What I DON'T miss about that job was the drunks. If I had a dime for everytime one of them tried or succeeded in grabbing my bootie...sick. You know, the "real" emergencies don't happen as often as one might think. Usually your codes are heroin addicts the very, very old. I did see alot of "action" but it is definitely not like Third Watch or ER. NO er is that busy all the time. There would be no staff left from burn out alone!
Cherokee
Monday, January 19, 2004 at 18:19:56 (EST)