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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.

Stephen King has received an honorary National Book Award for lifetime achievement. If you could honor one of your favorite authors, who would it be? Why?

For archived topics, click here.

Hello iparenting! Anybody out there? Can we have a new topic soon?? It's been way too long on a topic that was more or less un-debate-able to begin with. Hello???
Philbert Flange
Saturday, October 04, 2003 at 00:07:38 (EDT)
OKTHISTOPICREALLYSUCKS!WHEN DOTHEPEOPLEATIPARENTINGWAKEUPAND DO THEIRJOB?NEWTOPICPLEASE!!!
bored FOR real
Thursday, October 02, 2003 at 22:19:10 (EDT)
Sweet 2130: GET A LIFE. LH: Couldn't agree with you more.
A Goodwin
Thursday, October 02, 2003 at 16:52:22 (EDT)
Anytime you give or get money for nothing, it's a scam. What did you do to deserve that money? Please stop posting such crap on here. This is not the place for it.


Sara
Thursday, October 02, 2003 at 09:29:16 (EDT)
sweet2130 I DO believe that is a scam. I need not say anymore, LH said it best. Go away , and take your scam with you.
iParenting new question please!
Lyne
Thursday, October 02, 2003 at 08:33:34 (EDT)
OK sweet2130...what a bunch of BS! As if the damn telemarketers weren't bad enough...now we have idiots like you trying to steal our hard earned money on a parents chat forum! Anyone who falls for this scam has to be crazy...and if they really need the money that bad and have all the free time to do everything you posted, then they should be out looking for a REAL JOB...not trying to scam other people for their hard earned money! My advice to you is to get a REAL JOB and stop harassing people! Oh and BTW...advertising is not allowed on this forum and I have emailed the moderators about your post!

Wake up iparenting! Not only is the topic getting old, but when you start allowing this crap on here I think it's time for me to find a new forum!
LH
Wednesday, October 01, 2003 at 23:28:27 (EDT)
I just love it when people use these forums to advertise things like this.
Margarita
Wednesday, October 01, 2003 at 16:48:47 (EDT)
I found this in a news group and decided to try it. A little while back,
I was browsing through news groups, just like you are now and came
across a message just like this, that said you could make thousands of
dollars within weeks with only an initial investment of $6.00!!!

So I thought yeah right, this must be a scam!!! But like most of us, I
was curious, so I kept reading. Anyway, it said that you send $1.00 to
each of the 6 names and addresses stated in the message. You then place
your own name and address at the bottom of the list at #6 and post the
message in at least 200 news groups. (There are thousands). No catch,
that was it.

So after thinking it over, and talking to a few people first. I thought
about trying it. I figured, what have I got to lose except 6 stamps and
$6.00, right? So I invested the measly $6.00!!! Guess what? Within 7
days I started getting money in the mail!!! I was shocked!!! I figured
it would end soon, but the money just kept coming in!!! In my first
week, I had made about $25.00. By the end of the second week, I had made
a total of over $1,000.00!!! In the third week, I had over $10,000.00
and it is still growing!!! This is now my fourth week and I have made a
total of just over $42,000.00 and it is still coming in rapidly!!! It's
certainly worth $6.00 and 6 stamps!!! I have spent more than that on the
Lottery!!!

Let me tell you how this works and most importantly, why it works!!!
Also, make sure you
print a copy of this message now. So you can get the information off of
it as you need it. I promise you that if you follow the directions
exactly, that you will start making more money than you thought possible
by doing something so easy!!!

Suggestion: Read this entire message carefully!!! (Print it out or
download it.) Follow the simple directions and watch the money come
in!!! It's easy!!! It's legal!!! Your investment is only $6.00 (plus
postage).

IMPORTANT: This is not a rip-off!!! It is not
illegal!!! ? It is almost entirely risk free and it really works!!! If
all of the following instructions are adhered to, you will receive
extraordinary dividends!!!

Please note: Follow these directions EXACTLY, and $60,000.00 or more can
be yours in 20 to 90 days!!! This program remains successful because of
the honesty and the integrity of the participants!!! Please continue its
success by carefully adhering to the instructions.

You will now become part of the mail order business. In this business
your product is not solid or tangible, it is a service. You are in the
business of developing mailing lists. Many large corporations are happy
to pay big bucks for
quality lists. However, the money made from a mailing list is secondary
to the income which is made from people like you and me asking to be
included on your mailing list!!!

Here are the 4 easy steps to success:

Step 1: Get 6 separate pieces of paper and write the following on each
piece of paper.

PLEASE PUT ME ON YOUR MAILING LIST

Now get 6 U.S. dollar bills and place ONE inside each of the 6 pieces of
paper so the bills will not be seen through the envelopes (to prevent
mail theft). Next, place one paper in each of the 6 envelopes and seal
them, you should now have 6 sealed envelopes. Each with a piece of paper
stating the above phrase, your name and address, and a $1.00 bill.
THIS IS ABSOLUTELY LEGAL!!! YOU ARE REQUESTING A LEGITIMATE SERVICE AND
YOU ARE PAYING FOR IT!!!

Like most of us, I was a little skeptical and a little worried about the
legal aspect of it all. So I checked it out with the U.S. Postal Service
and they confirmed that it is indeed legal!!!

Mail the 6 envelopes to the following addresses:


J.J.Maxey
355 N. Manila Ave
Fresno, Ca 93727
USA

Kyle Pate
P.O. BOx 2046
Great Falls, MT 59403-2046
USA

B Tingle
4789-1202 Riverside Dr E
Windsor, ON N8Y 5A2
CANADA

P&S Jackson
35 Princess Street
Gananoque, ON K7G 2N2
CANADA

K.G. Christophe
50 Belhurst Lane
Willingboro, NJ 08046
USA

L.Conner
4030 B Shady Grove Ct
Shaw AFB, SC 29152
USA

Step 2: Now take the #1 name off the list that you see above, move the
other names up (6 becomes 5, 5 becomes 4, etc.) and add your name as
number 6 on the list.

Step 3: Change anything you need to, but try to keep this message as
close to what you see as possible. Now, post your amended message to at
least 200 news groups. I think there are close to 24,000 groups!!! All
you need is 200, but remember, the more you post, the more money you
make!!! This is perfectly legal!! If you have any doubts, refer to
Title18 sec. 1302 & 1341 of the postal lottery laws. Keep a copy of
these steps for yourself and whenever you need money, you can use it
again.

Please remember that this program remains successful because of the
honesty and the integrity of the participants and by their carefully
adhering to the directions!!!

Look at it this way. If you are of integrity, the program will continue
and the money that so many others have received will come your way!!!

Note: You may want to retain every name and address sent to you, either
on your computer or hard copy and keep the notes people send you. This
verifies that you are truly providing a service. Also, it might be a
good Idea to wrap the $1 bills in dark paper to reduce the risk of mail
theft.

So, as each post is downloaded and the directions carefully followed,
six members will be reimbursed for their participation as a list
developer with one dollar each. Your name will move up the list
geometrically so that when your name reaches the #1 position, you will
be receiving thousands of dollars in cash!!! What an opportunity for
only $6.00!!! ($1.00
for each of the first six people listed above).

Send it now, add your own name to the list and your in business!!!

DIRECTIONS FOR HOW TO POST TO A NEWS GROUP!!!

Step 1: You do not need to re-type this entire message to do your own
posting. Simply put your cursor at the beginning of this message and
drag your cursor to the bottom of this message and select copy from the
edit menu. This will copy the entire message into the computer memory.

Step 2: Open a blank note pad file and place your cursor at the top of
the blank page. From
the edit menu select paste. This will paste a copy of the message into
notepad so that you
can add your name to the list.

Step 3: Save your new notepad file as a txt file. If you want to do your
posting in a different setting, you'll always have this file to go back
to.
Step 4: Use Netscape or Internet Explorer and try searching for various
news groups (on-line forums, message boards, chat sites, discussions,
etc.)

Step 5: Visit these message boards and post this message as a new
message by highlighting the text of this message from your notepad and
selecting paste from the edit menu. Fill in the subject, this will be
the header that everybody sees as they scroll through the list of
postings in a particular group. Click the post message button. You've
done your first one! Congratulations!!! All You have to do is jump to
different news groups and post away, after you get the hang of it, it
will take about 30 seconds for each news group!

REMEMBER, THE MORE NEWS GROUPS YOU POST IN, THE MORE MONEY YOU WILL
MAKE!!!! (But you have to post a minimum of 200).

That's it!!! You will begin receiving money from around the world within
days!!! You may eventually want to rent a P.O. Box due to the large
amount of mail you will receive. If you
wish to stay anonymous, you can invent a name to use, as long as the
postman will deliver it.

JUST MAKE SURE ALL THE ADDRESSES ARE CORRECT!!!

Now the why part. Out of 200 postings, say you receive only 5 replies (a
very low example). So then you made $5.00 with your name at #6 on the
letter. Now, each of the 5 persons who sent you $1.00 make the minimum
200 postings, each with your name at #5 and only 5 persons respond to
each of the original 5, that is another $25.00 for you. Now those 25
each make 200 MINIMUM posts with your name at #4 and only 5 replies
each, you will bring in an additional $125.00!!!! Now, those 125 persons
turn around and post the minimum 200 with your name at #3 and only
receive 5 replies each, you will make an additional $625.00!!! OK, now
here is the fun part, each of those 625 persons post a minimum 200
messages with your name at #2 and they each only receive 5 replies, that
just made you $3,125.00!!! Those 3,125 persons will all deliver this
message to 200 news groups, If just 5 more reply you will receive
$15,625.00!!! All with an original investment of only $6.00!!! Amazing
isn't it!!!! When your name is no longer on the list, you just take the
latest posting in the news groups and send out another $6.00 to the
names on the list, putting your name at number 6 again.

You must realize that thousands of people all over the world are joining
the internet and reading these messages every day!!! Just like you are
now!!! So, can you afford $6.00 and see if it really works? I'm glad I
did!!! People have said, "what if the plan is played out and no one
sends you the money?" So what!!! What are the chances of that happening,
when there are tons of new honest users and new honest people who are
joining the internet and news groups everyday and are willing to give it
a try? Estimates are at 20,000 to 50,000 new users, every day!!!

REMEMBER PLAY HONESTLY AND FAIRLY AND THIS WILL REALLY WORK!!!

--comments/feedback(please post your feedback/experiences here)---

Not bad for 1 hr's work....made me around $5320 in roughly 35 days
Anthony M Texas

Hello, I rcvd 269 bucks in the post in 2 weeks. Dan Miami, FL

I had to wait around 10 days before I had any results - $13,450 as of 3rd
Jan 2003 to date(14th Feb 2003).Am going to re-post it again for more
money!!
Del from Alberta - Canada

Only received around $588 in the post the last 2 months since I started
the
program but I'd posted to approx. 100 newsgroups.
James P Manchester UK

cool....didn't expect much out of this "scam" initially but I have pay my
credit card bill
Mustafa , Jordan

I have received money from people all over the world...here in China it
is
very good money and I buy new computer last month
Zhong Wen ...Guangxi CHina

For $6,I made $246 in 2 weeks --ROMEO2326 little rock,AR US of A

Hey, just dropping a line to say that after posting to well over 820
newsgroups on google and my ISP newsgroup server over a period of 4 1/2
months ,I've raked in $54280 . Mucho dinero baby!!!! Peace, Drew Dallas
TX

I hope whom ever receives my envelopes enjoys the crispy new dollar bills.
Great program, I just started receiving cash. S.C.B.




sweet2130
email: lconner@ftc-i.net
Wednesday, October 01, 2003 at 15:26:15 (EDT)
Magarita,

Wow that stinks! Germany is getting pretty cold now. I'm not use to the cold weather. I'm from the South. Well, tell her to hang in their. I know that she's "new" to the military, but she will soon learn that the wives and kids are as much as a part of the military as the spouses (male or female). The only differences is that we didn't have the "pleasure" of attending Basic Training or OCS or whatever means that they may have entered the military (academy, etc.)

angie,

That's a really good idea. Buying the necessities for the sponsored family. I will run that by my husband for the next Chaplain that will replace him.

Take Care Ladies,

It's around 6 pm, and I have to go and cook dinner.


Shawanda
Wednesday, October 01, 2003 at 11:36:43 (EDT)
Angela: I know...I keep thinking about how tired I'll be once the little one is finally here! If my husband thinks his "honney do" lists are long now..watch out!!LOL
A Goodwin
Wednesday, October 01, 2003 at 08:34:08 (EDT)
Shawanda ~ well, it sounds like their plans are on hold for a while. He left with the understanding that he would be stationed in Germany for 6 months and then deployed for 6 months - well yesterday they were told that he is being sent ASAP to Iraq from Germany (he left 2 weeks ago) for 7 months. His wife is going to go ahead and stay here until January and then go over. They will be in Freidburg and I don't know how close that would be to you - you didn't mention it so probably not very. She is pretty asd over it all because he had only been home a few weeks from Basic when he left for Germany and they were looking forward to having 6 months together - now she won't see him for 7 - rough intro to army life. ANyhow, thanks for your offer of help!
Margarita
Tuesday, September 30, 2003 at 23:01:27 (EDT)
Shawanda~ thank you - and did I mention that it is nice to have you back?? ;) I am going to copy and paste your post so I have the info handy.
I just got my first group assignment for my intro to education class - religion in schools - and my partner and I have totally different ideas so it should be educational for both of us!! BTW - before anyone gets upset - I don't think that religion should be taught in public schools but I do think it is ridiculous to exclude the Pledge of Allegience (schools are gov't institutions after all and our constitution does have the name God in it) or to eliminate church prayer groups (hello some people think football is offensive are they going to do away with the FB team) and team prayers before games. Religions of all types play a huge part in the world events and history - how can we pretend they don't exist?
On the Do Not Call list - well I am happy about it from a personal level. My job does require me to do some telemarketing, but I only call people who have submitted info showing an interest in refinancing or purchasing a home - for example I pay to have access to leads from a website where people have made inquiries about home loans, I follow up with a call or email. Because I work from home most of my business that is not referal based comes this way, and now I will not be able to call these people even though they have requested info because I have not had a phone conversation or working relationship with them in the last 18 months. I am unclear if I can even email them?? My company sent out a memo saying they were not going through the trouble of purchasing the list SO to be on the safe side we are not to make any telemarketing calls at all to avoid a $11,000 fine. HOwever, I personally am pleased that I won't be receiving calls from six different glass shops anymore - or siding companies, etc.
Well, homework beckons.

Margarita
Tuesday, September 30, 2003 at 16:52:47 (EDT)
A Goodwin--Just wait until you come home from a long day a work, and have your baby (or two, or three) to deal with, and those telemarketers call. Talk about RRROOOAAARRR! ;)Hee!Hee!
angela
Tuesday, September 30, 2003 at 16:43:28 (EDT)
Off Topic: Do Not Call List

The thing that makes me most upset is that I really dont want to have my phone unlisted, but I guess that is what they are resorting the American public to do. And as for asking them to take you off their list...how many times do you think I've been hung up on or treated rudley, but have no number to call back to complain since it comes up on the caller ID as an unknown number. I once had a call at 9:00 PM, and I asked the telemarketer how dare they call me so late, and her reply was that it was not against the law! My own family and friends dont call me at 9:00 PM! If I get a call at 9:00 PM, I assume it is an emergency...not someone wanting me to buy something. I feel bad for those who would loose their jobs, however, I am sick and tired of coming home from a long day at work and being constantly interrupted during my busiest time of the day. I'm with LH....ROOOOAAAAARRRR!!!!
A Goodwin
Tuesday, September 30, 2003 at 16:06:05 (EDT)
I was reading, and someone mentioned, maybe LH, that we pay for our phone service, therefore, we should have the say if we do not want all of these annoying calls. It is in the privacy of our own home that we are being invaded by the never ending telephone ringing, and alot of times when I answer it, they have already hung up, due to the computer. I for one am fet up with this. I signed up for the do not call list last month. I try to be nice on the phone with them, but they keep calling, then I get angry that my evening is being interrupted like this. If I need their services, I WILL CALL THEM. I hope this is not blocked again. I have never bought anything from a telemarketer either. And I wont.
Lyne
Tuesday, September 30, 2003 at 15:55:17 (EDT)
Sounds like a plan Lyne.=) Oh--the newest thing is that the Telemarketers Union has agreed to "voluntarily" abide by the "Do Not Call List." Puleez! They don't quit calling even when you ask to speak to their supervisor, and ask HIM/HER to take you out of their company's calling system! Are we really supposed to believe they will "voluntarily" take 50 million American households out of their calling system? Geez! I have an idea for a fun question--think of professions where the people who practice them are pretty much disliked due to the job they do (example: telemarketers!) I'm sure many of them, individually, are decent people, but I can't think of a group of individuals more disliked by American society. TC all!=)
angela
Tuesday, September 30, 2003 at 13:59:35 (EDT)
Lyne: Definitely!
A Goodwin
Tuesday, September 30, 2003 at 13:37:46 (EDT)
I think the Telemarketing callers would be a great debate topic. What do you guys think?
Lyne
Tuesday, September 30, 2003 at 09:09:49 (EDT)
Goodwin...good post! I agree and am equally P.O.ed about the whole thing! Just when I thought we finally would be getting rid of those nasty telemarketers...ROAR!!!
LH
Tuesday, September 30, 2003 at 00:42:38 (EDT)
IPARENTING: CHANGE THE TOPIC AND PLEASE MAKE IT MORE INTERESTING!
BORED
Monday, September 29, 2003 at 23:36:28 (EDT)
Are parents successful educating their own kids.
meldon collins
email: www.meldoncollins@yahoo.com
Monday, September 29, 2003 at 14:31:44 (EDT)
Hi Shawanda--My husband did a TAD in Ramstein. Small world!=) I completely know what you mean about patience, especially when it comes to your household goods. We arrived at JMF St. Mawgan on December 1 of that year, and our household goods did not get there until February 14!=(
We gave up on "express shipments" after a few deployments too. Sometimes our "express" showed up AFTER our household goods. We used to pack a BIG box of essentials--towels, dishcloths, bed linens, basic kitchen utensils, dishes, alarm clock/radios, COFFEEMAKER=), some of the children's games/toys, and a photo album from home(not really an essential, but it helps as far as emotional comfort.) We then sent the big box via snail mail, and had it either waiting for us at the post office of our next duty station, or had our station sponsor pick it up and put it in whatever house we had been assigned too. Overseas sponsors are also a great thing--when we sponsored we always made sure we had the heat turned on, temporary furniture from MWR moved in, and the hospitality kit from housing delivered. We would also (out of our own pocket) go to the commissary and buy a few days worth of groceries to get the family through those first few days. They were expected to do the same for the next family that THEY sponsored.
Good to "see" you back!
angela
Monday, September 29, 2003 at 11:07:03 (EDT)
Margarita,

I only know of the communities close to me. Thatis, Heidelberg, Mannheim (Army), (kind of far) Stuggart (Army) , Ramstein (AFB), (real far-40 minutes) Kaiserslautern(Army) and many others. It depends on his mos ;that will determine their base. If you find out where they're going and if it's in any of the areas that I mentioned, you can have your friend give me a call. Again we are in Vernheim, near the BFV barracks, in Mannheim. My email address is rshawanda@hotmail.com. If she is in the area, I will be happy to show here around, me and the other Chaplain's wives. Also tell her about the MOST tour; it helps dependents get comfortable with their surroundings. Another thing, tell her that it usually takes about 60 days to get totally situated ,so be patient. Patients is truly a virtue in Germany. It takes so long for your things to arrive.

T.C.
Shawanda
Monday, September 29, 2003 at 08:52:34 (EDT)
Anglea: Couldn't agree with you more on the "Do Not Call List". The first thing that I think is completly rediculous, is that one of the judges that upheld the telemarking union's right to free speech, actually had his phone number on the "Do No Call List"!! Secondly, I PAY for my telephone line. Therefore, I believe that since I PAY for the service, that this line should be exclusive to me. I have never once bought something off of the phone, nor will I ever. I get so miffed when we get the same calls over and over AFTER we ask them to stop calling. Direct TV is great for this. They call us EVERY day. Needless to say, what about FREEDOM OF PRIVACY!!! Freedom of speech is one thing...if you want to stand on the corner of my road and ask me to buy Direct TV...go for it. But the moment you invade my privacy in my own home, you can forget about me buying whatever you want anyway. Sorry to be so long-winded about this. I was in my 7th heaven when I found out we could all get on this list, but alas, big corporate America again dissapoints.
A Goodwin
Monday, September 29, 2003 at 08:36:35 (EDT)
Barbara Olson for HELL TO PAY. The unauthorized biography of Hillary Clinton. A must read for all Americans!
Viewer
Saturday, September 27, 2003 at 23:01:36 (EDT)
hello all! life has just been so hectic here in hurricane heaven! just 3 weeks after fabian battered us, we had to prepare for juan today. BUT thankfully it wasn't as bad as they had thought. what a nightmare this has been!!

one of my favorite authors is nicholas sparks. i love his wholesome, real characters, and how he writes of love that is so beautiful and pure.

john grisham is fabulous, so is john lescroart (legal thrillers). some of anita shreve's books are destined to be the next generation's classics i think, too.

anyway i do miss posting regularly on the board, but hopefully my life will calm down eventually and let me and my 'puter bond again!

take care all,
shawanda, great to "see" you back!!

j-mo
Friday, September 26, 2003 at 18:38:24 (EDT)
Some questions are indeed more exciting than others. "Boring" is pretty much in the eye of the beholder I guess. Kate--I've got the point that you find this question boring, but I have also noticed you have visited this "boring" topic at least twice to respond to other posters!=)
Hi Margarita and LH! Did anyone else here register with the "Do Not Call List?" We did (along with 50 MILLION other Americans according to CNN) and it just chaps my hide that TWO judges have upheld the telemarketing union's right to free speech, delaying the list going into effect on October 1. I totally believe in one's right to free speech--BUT one persons "rights" end where another persons begins--i.e. the never ending phone calls invading our home between 5:00p.m. and 9:00p.m. every night! We should not be forced to turn off our ringer because the phone is interfering with our normal activities of daily living--and quite often they are sale's calls. AARRGGHH! TC all!!!!
angela
Friday, September 26, 2003 at 17:19:41 (EDT)
Please Rebeka let it go. I just thought this was a boring question, I wasnt bashing anyone.
Kate
Friday, September 26, 2003 at 16:21:45 (EDT)
I disagree, Kate, that this is a lame question. Reading is an important part of people's lives. Or it should be. Am I to assume that you don't -- or can't -- read? You have nothing to contribute to the conversation? I just hate seeing something knocked like that. If you don't like it, simply don't respond and wait for next week's question.

Right now I am into reading the classics. I didn't pay much attention to them when I HAD to read them in school.

King's books are long.
Rebeka
Friday, September 26, 2003 at 11:21:06 (EDT)
The last book I read, thanks to iParenting's suggestion on the book club page, was John Grishom's Skipping Christmas. I thoroughly enjoyed it and will read it again this year to kick start the holiday season. It's rings to true and kept me laughing out load. Grishom is a great writer.

Stephen King is good, but I've never gotten into his books. They're too long for me.
Ted
Friday, September 26, 2003 at 11:13:48 (EDT)
. Heredity of Feeble Mindedness . Henry H. Goddard, Ph.D. Brilliant man!
Duke
Thursday, September 25, 2003 at 18:45:05 (EDT)
Margarita - I have tried reading "I Know This Much Is True" several times. Each time I get started on it something happens and I don't read it. Thanks for reminding me of it, I'll start it again tonight.


Misty
Thursday, September 25, 2003 at 14:40:40 (EDT)
I have a girl, 10.5 years old and a little boy, 3.5 months old. My two children are totally different. My question concerns my son, what can I do to entertain/occupy my son. He is so alert.. We read books, play with toys, he has a swing, a jungle gym. I know this must sound silly, but I am at a loss. He looks bored, and will fuss. My daughter kept me busy all the time. Please help
Lorraine
email: lmras90@earthlink.net
Thursday, September 25, 2003 at 14:24:20 (EDT)
A GOODWIN-That's great! I remember my 10 wk u/s with my daughter, and she looked like a little bean. It's in her baby book now. I had a 16 wk one done too, and she looked like a little alien...a cute alien, but still an alien. They are keepsakes I will treasure forever. I actually laminated them (I would suggest that, to preserve them) and now they will last forever. I hope that my midwife will book an u/s.
SH
Thursday, September 25, 2003 at 11:54:39 (EDT)
Goodwin...that is such wonderful news!!! Congrats on your first baby picture! Would ya believe I never had a single ultra-sound with my daughter..thankfully everything turned out fine! I kinda wish I would have had one though, as I would have loved to see her all snuggled up in my womb..and what a wonderful keepsake! You TC!!!
LH
Thursday, September 25, 2003 at 09:03:14 (EDT)
SH, Margarita & others: Well, baby is A-OK. I think its amazing how I'm 9 1/2 weeks along, and I could see on the ultrasound the arms, legs, brain, amniotic sac, and of course heart beat - he/she looks like a little gummy bear! We also got to hear the heart beat. My husband and I (this is our first baby), are so in awe at the fact that we got to see our baby! And we have our first baby picture. Its truly an amazing and wonderful thing. I'm so happy.

Shawanda: Hopefully, with our presidents lastest talks with the president of Germany, that maybe the tone will change for the better for the American's stationed there. Good luck.
A Goodwin
Thursday, September 25, 2003 at 08:47:36 (EDT)
Does anyone here like Wally Lamb - "I Know This Much is True" and also his first novel whose title I can not remember very well, something like she's gone under or something like that. Both wonderful books.
Shawanda~ just curious how many areas of Germany are army families stationed in? My husband's best friend left last Sunday for Germany and his wife will be leaving in about 30 days. It is so good to see you on here again and hear you are doing well - we missed you!!
Margarita
Wednesday, September 24, 2003 at 23:28:28 (EDT)
Somebody is big enough to point fingers, but not big enough to print their name....
Margarita
Wednesday, September 24, 2003 at 23:24:33 (EDT)
The "Anne" books by L.M. Montgomery are terrific! I just bought the set for my 10 - year old, as that was about my age when I started reading them, but, to my great sorrow, she was not very impressed. Oh well, we put them away for when she's older, and I got to read them all again! I'm going to the library tomorrow to look for some of the titles that have been suggested.
April
Wednesday, September 24, 2003 at 23:06:11 (EDT)
Yeah, and I always find it amusing when they say "you Americans"...like its a bad thing! LOLOL!
LH
Wednesday, September 24, 2003 at 19:00:43 (EDT)
Dont you think its a bit weird how once in a while there will be posts from people who have obviously been in another chat board? I wonder if they ever get ours?
A Goodwin
Wednesday, September 24, 2003 at 16:33:53 (EDT)
where is the weapons of mass destructions, you americans were debated about a couple of months ago????????
ha ha
Wednesday, September 24, 2003 at 15:37:30 (EDT)
what is the legal asspect of all this is there enough blame to go around? and if so who? and why did th doctor Andrea Yates was seeing let them go to another doctor?

Renee Stevens
email: Dra292@netscape.net
Wednesday, September 24, 2003 at 13:33:50 (EDT)
A Goodwin-

Congratulations! I'm sure that everything will be just fine.

Oh I thought of a book that and author that I think is well deserving of recognition. BeBe Moore Cambell "You're Blues Ain't Like Mine." It's an excellent book.

LH- Thanks for the welcome back :) I miss Tampa sooo much...And I thought that I hated Tampa :) You'll miss anything I guess when you are away from home (America). Texas is our last stop and I will truly be home :) T.C.


Shawanda
Wednesday, September 24, 2003 at 02:02:46 (EDT)
Lyne~ yep you bet I watched it. I am one of those people who is always left unbsatisfied with a movie that is based on a novel I have read. I always think the book is better, but that movie was pretty good. One of my biggest let - downs was Simon Birch which was a unauthorized screenplay based on John Irving's A Prayer For Owen Meany - there was so much left out as well as The Cider House Rules.
Yes, LH dd is darling daughter. ;) She is going to daycare MWF and then my 2 sisters who live in the area are splitting Tuesdays and Thursdays so today she went to her aunties house and she was happy there - not really ready to leave. That sister watches other kids to make pocket money and she always has at least 3 kids there with her own 2. My dd is 28 months and so far the only people who have watched her have been my mom, my 2 sisters and my sister in law and of course the church nursery once a week. It was a big adjustment for both of us.
Well, I guess I better get dinner starter (it's 430 here) and then plan on what homework I am going to delve into first.
Goodwin~ let us know all about your u/s it is so exciting to see and hear them!!
Margarita
Tuesday, September 23, 2003 at 19:32:30 (EDT)
SH & Angela: Thanks...I really appreciate the support! I am sure everything in fine...still having lots of preggo symptoms, although I'm glad the m/s is a bit less consuming. My pants are fitting a bit more tightly these days...at the Dr.'s office it said that I gained 5 pounds all ready. So at least I'm around the normal range of (3-8 pounds) in the first trimester. Anyway, I'm am really excited to see the baby on ultrasound tomorrow. I'm sure it will be a relief.
A Goodwin
Tuesday, September 23, 2003 at 13:41:18 (EDT)
OOPS! I meant SH is correct....not "sc." Beware of that "preggo brain." It does not go away as soon as the baby is born...I feel like I will have it forever now! Hee! Hee!
angela
Tuesday, September 23, 2003 at 12:40:41 (EDT)
Margarita--I watched We Were the Mulvaney's on the Lifetime channel, then I read the book...VERY good read. The Lovely Bones is outstanding too! As far as daycare and preschool for the little one...I am on my THIRD little one at daycare, and you will always have some "separation anxiety". I'm talking about YOUR anxiety, not your baby's anxiety!=) Believe it or not, they are most generally just fine before you even leave the parking lot! We had a bit more anxiety with our son as I stayed home with him until he was almost 2, so we had a lot of "separation tears" in the morning, and it was probably harder on me emotionally than for him. Now he is THRIVING...just remember that it is important for a child to have as many people in the world love them as possible, and a good daycare provider can provide that love, which is a great thing. Hang in there!
A Goodwin--sc is right in that I don't think a little pink or bloody "show" is uncommon those first few weeks. My OB/GYN said it is very common to get a bit of spotting when the egg (I think they call it a zygot) implants itself in your uterus. Sometimes it implants low in the uterus( sometimes causing placenta previa) which
can also cause some bleeding. I had that with this last bundle of joy, and I know you are concerned...you'll feel so much better once you have an ultra-sound and "see" the baby. It is very reassuring. Also, if you are worried about ANYTHING ask questions, questions, questions! Don't worry about sounding dumb or taking up too much of your health care provider's time...they are generally more than happy to talk to you! Peace of mind is priceless during pregnancy, especially your first when we are all a bit mystified by the whole process!=)
angela
Tuesday, September 23, 2003 at 12:37:58 (EDT)
A GOODWIN-I had a bit of pink show with my 1st PG and again with this one. Of course I was a bit worried, but everything was fine. I know it's very common. I find that I'm a lot more relaxed with this PG, I don't worry about every little twinge. I'm starting to grow a bit already, I'll be showing much sooner this time. The first one I didn't show till I was almost 7 months.
SH
Tuesday, September 23, 2003 at 11:49:05 (EDT)
I almost forgot one of my all-time favorites: Shel Silverstein. My father used to read "Where the Sidewalk Ends" every night to us kids...we loved the rhyming. The Growing Tree is another good read for all ages.

SH: Well, I'm feeling good, but I had a scare this weekend. I started to spot, so I called my doctor - no spotting since. Anyway, I had an appointment today and she said not to worry...she said it was pretty normal. Tomorrow I am going in for an ultrasound - just to make sure everything is fine. Ugh...I have dreaded stuff like this. I hate the wait too. Its driving me nuts. How strange to get m/s only at church. I know that sometimes mine is triggered by certain smells. Good luck this Sunday!!!
A Goodwin
Tuesday, September 23, 2003 at 11:02:09 (EDT)
HI SHAWANDA!!! Welcome back!!! TC!!!
LH
Tuesday, September 23, 2003 at 10:40:31 (EDT)
Hi Ladies,

I'm back!! Wow what a culture shock! Germany is so different. The way that the people act here, it's almost like living in New York (no offense) The people look at us (Americans) like they seriously have a problem with us. I live in Vernheim, near Mannheim. It's so interesting. I have learn a little German since I've been here. Alot of people here do not like Americans and I do mean alot. The younger generation loves everything about America, especially rap music and hip hop clothing; that's really big over here. I was buying some pomme frische and what did I see on t.v. Puffy Combs and Nelly (rappers) Interesting huh?

Well, I didn't answer the question because I can't think of anyone at the moment. In a couple of weeks we are planning to go to London (not far at all from where we are---wow isn't that great?)

Well, I hope to contiue reading the posting and Guten Morgen (Good Morning) to all I'm sure it's in the a.m. in the states.

T.C.
Shawanda
Tuesday, September 23, 2003 at 09:46:10 (EDT)
Margarita...oh those first days of daycare, preschool, and kindergarden are toughies!!! And I'll never forget my daughters first day of middle school...as the bus took off I had to turn away cauz I was bawling hysterically! We had the first day of HS last year, and surprizingly I didn't cry one bit! BTW...what does "dd" stand for??? (I'm guessing "darling daughter"...?) TC!!!
LH
Tuesday, September 23, 2003 at 09:27:43 (EDT)
Margarita I forgot to ask, did you see We Were the Mulveneys on Lifetime? It was a really good movie.
Lyne
Tuesday, September 23, 2003 at 09:22:39 (EDT)
My daughter loves the Beverly Cleary books. She loves Ramonna. Those are great for young readers. Dr. Suess is wonderful too. So great for preschoolers. Oh, and The Lovely Bones, excellent book to read!
Lyne
Tuesday, September 23, 2003 at 08:42:53 (EDT)
Ok - I'd have to start a whole new post if I was going to post about my favorite children's authors too ;).
Riley's mom ~ I know you are not a child, but just wanted to make sure since I didn't mention it - Summer Sisters is not intended for young readers - it is an adult book, I don't mean x rated, just too mature for Blume's regular audience - I was quiet surprised when I saw who had written it.
Another good read which is currently on the besteller list is The Lovely Bones
Erin, if you like John Irving you might want to read The Flamingo Rising by Larry Baker.
And... one of my newer favorites is We Were the Mulvaneys.
OK, started class today and my day has been crazy and it isn't over yet - my dd had her first day of daycare and she broke my heart by crying when I left her there and she was still crying when I picked her up =(.
Margarita
Tuesday, September 23, 2003 at 00:46:35 (EDT)
sc--I agree. Dr. Seuss rules!!
Also I liked William Goldman(The Princess Bride). Wasn't much of a reader as a kid, but read that one as a teen before they were even thinking of making it into a movie and enjoyed it immensely. Of course, being a boy, my favorite parts were the sword fights, but the entire book just captivated me. It was so well written. I'll have to make sure I read that one, among others, with my boy in a few years.
Philbert Flange
Monday, September 22, 2003 at 23:28:23 (EDT)
Angela, very good picks. I have read those books growing up as well. There sure are some great authors for children to grow up with.
Riley's Mom
Monday, September 22, 2003 at 19:19:33 (EDT)
This is new for me.....I love John Irving. Cider House Rules, The World According to Garth, Widow for One Year..etc. He is just has a way of making his charectors memorable, intreging & so interesting. I totaly suggest any of his novels.
Erin H
email: trenterin@hotmail.com
Monday, September 22, 2003 at 18:41:42 (EDT)
I actually met the author, Bill Wallace, when I was in second or third grade. For the life of me I can't remember anything he wrote. I barely remembered his name. :)
I like Wilson Rawls (?). I think he was the one who wrote Summer of the Monkeys and Where the Red Fern Grows.
Oh and good Ol' Dr. Seuss. :)
sc
Monday, September 22, 2003 at 18:03:50 (EDT)
HMMM? I would have to say Laura Ingalls Wilder and Beverly Cleary. The first "chapter" book I ever read was "Ramona the Brave" which started my life long love of reading. The "Little House" books strengthened my love of reading, as well as instilled a love of American History. (Plus, I grew up about 40 miles away from the REAL Walnut Grove, MN.)=)
Hi L.H. and Margarita! Also, where are you j mo? I hope all is well with you hon! TC all!
angela
Monday, September 22, 2003 at 17:34:30 (EDT)
Kate, no I am not trying to start an arguememt. I am going to reply to the question. I am just trying to think of my favorite author, I love to read so I have many favorites. I just figured since you were being judgemental that you could come up with something better. I think maybe you were the one looking for the arguement.
JoAnna
Monday, September 22, 2003 at 16:30:01 (EDT)
I didnt post that for you to start a fight with me Joanna. I was just saying its a lame, boring question to debate. Thats all. And, why didnt you even talk about the topic? Or are you just trying to start an argument?
Kate
Monday, September 22, 2003 at 15:58:07 (EDT)
Kate: Since you don't like this question, let's hear a better one from you.

JoAnna
JoAnna
Monday, September 22, 2003 at 14:26:49 (EDT)
Awww GOODWIN...I know how you feel! I have a similiar problem in that my life is just too darn busy and complicated at times to sit and read a book! I used to read alot...but I guess its kinda like riding a bike...you never forget how, but must do it often to be "good" at it! Sometimes when I try to read as of lately, I find myself skipping sentences and whole paragraphs...maybe its due to stress or something, not sure! I do, however, plan to pick up that book I got interested in over the summer and finish the darn thing! LOL, wish me luck!!!

Here is a good quote that describes me well:
"We buy books with the thought of also buying the time to read them!" TC!
LH
Monday, September 22, 2003 at 13:32:29 (EDT)
You know, it's funny, I read a lot but most of the time I don't even remember the title of the book, let alone the author. Now that I'm a mom I hardly have time to read anyway. I have read some Stephen King though, and I like most of his stuff. He has published a lot of books and I think he was well deserving of the award.

A GOODWIN-Is your M/S any better? It seems I only feel nauseous on Sundays at church. I'm still pretty tired most of the time though.
SH
Monday, September 22, 2003 at 12:13:43 (EDT)
Thanx Margarita, I haven't actually read that one. I will look for it. I am sure it will be a wonderful read.

Thanks Again !!
Riley's Mom
Monday, September 22, 2003 at 12:10:48 (EDT)
What a lame question.
Kate
Monday, September 22, 2003 at 11:56:58 (EDT)
I'm sad...I cannot remember the last book I've read from beginning to end...I think the last was actually a biography on Colin Powell's life. I'd love to read a good book, but I actually edit scientific reports for a living...so all day I read and re-read...about boring stuff like geology and hydrogeology. By the time I get home, the last thing I want to do is read. I used to love it though...get caught up in the story, to be immersed in someone else's life story.
A Goodwin
Monday, September 22, 2003 at 08:57:40 (EDT)
Riley's mom ~ add Summer Sister's to Ms. Blume's list of well written and excellent books. I have read this one about 4 times in the last 3 years - my husband makes fun of me because I will read my favs over and over.
Margarita
Sunday, September 21, 2003 at 22:22:11 (EDT)
I would have to say, Louis Lowery. I loved The Giver when I was a kid and its companion, Gathering Blue. They are books about what if futures. They realy made me gratefull for the life that I had.
Kat
Kat
email: howlol@yahoo.com
Sunday, September 21, 2003 at 20:12:16 (EDT)
I would love to honour Judy Blume. What little girl growing up HASN'T read "Are You There God it's Me Margret"
What a wonderful story.
Also "The Seven and a Half Sins of Stacey Kendall"
All stories that really helped girls through the awkward stages of growing up.
I have even reread these books as an adult and still loved them.
Check out your library folks, if you haven't heard of these. I promise you will love them and want to share with your young daughters.
Riley's Mom
Sunday, September 21, 2003 at 15:39:47 (EDT)
Grumpasouras...LOL, yep, thats ME! I hate dusting the most, but it's all catching up with me since I've been sick...hard to believe its almost time to put away the summer clothes and get out the winter stuff...seems like I was just putting it away! Man, this summer has flown by!!!

Where is everybody???
LH
Sunday, September 21, 2003 at 14:53:32 (EDT)
LH ~ well you are not alone - but no I am not doing housework - the feeling rarely strikes me to dust - thank Goodness this house doesn't collect dust like our old one - dishes and floors and laundry are all I do on a regular basis (yes I am a lazy bad housekeeper but hey if it counts for brownie points I have to do dishes by hand).
It is only 12:46 where I am and I will be hitting the hay soon - I am way too much of a habit night owl and such a grumpasouras in the morning.
Margarita
Sunday, September 21, 2003 at 03:46:42 (EDT)
And while I am at it, talking Mr. Irving up that is, I will add a list of books by him (from the top of my head that I have read - sorry if I miss any or mess the titles up too badly) in case anyone would like to read his work.
The World According to Garp
Setting Free the Bears
The Hotel New Hampshire
the Water Method Man
The Cider House Rules
A Prayer for Owen Meany
Son of the Circus (the only one I didn't really care for)
A Widow for One Year

And these are 2 that I haven't read (that I can remember - I read so much sometimes I forget until I start reading a book if I have read it or not) but am planning on it:
the 158 pound marriage
trying to save piggy sneed
Ok - happy reading you all!

Maragrita
Sunday, September 21, 2003 at 03:43:08 (EDT)
Margarita...LOL, I think so!! I'm being a real nite owl tonite...would ya believe I was dusting at 3am! (Oh well, gotta do it when the feeling strikes ya!)
LH
Sunday, September 21, 2003 at 03:40:46 (EDT)
John Irving is my favorite author. The Cider House Rules is my favorite book of his - anyone who saw the movie but didn't read the book - the book is better. I love him because he is quirky, a little crazy and his characters are unbelievable but real at the same time (Owen Meany) which, if we all examined our lives and the people within them, we would find alot more of than we knew =).
LH ~ didn't someone once tell you that topics were only changed on Tuesdays - sometimes later but never sooner?? Just curious.
Margarita
Sunday, September 21, 2003 at 03:37:12 (EDT)
My favorite author is Maya Angelou...I loved her "I Know Why The Caged Bird Sings" and "The Heart of A Woman"...her words have so much meaning to them and keep me captivated!

I also luv Stephan King and have read most of his books and enjoy the ones that were made into movies too!
LH
Saturday, September 20, 2003 at 23:43:48 (EDT)