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I’ve recently seen a lot of good reviews for this hair dryer, and I’m dying to see if it lives up to the hype. It reminds me of what every girl had in middle school, the dryer with the brush attached, but (hopefully) updated with better technology. Since having my son, I’ll admit that it’s a pretty rare occasion that I dry my hair, but when I do I feel more put-together at work. My hair is wavy and somewhat frizzy, so I would probably purchase the dryer and styler option for $59.92 because it’s more of a round brush attachment versus the paddle brush attachment for $29.99. I think I’m going to put this in my cart, after feeling a little blah after a recent week straight of uninspiring wet ponytails. Revlon One Step Hair Dryer and Volumizer This post contains affiliate links and Corporette® may earn commissions for purchases made through links in this post. For more details see here. Thank you so much for your support!Sales of note for 5.5.24
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And — here are some of our latest threadjacks of interest – working mom questions asked by the commenters!
- If you’re a working parent of an infant with low sleep needs, how do you function at work when you’re in the throes of baby’s sleep regression?
- Should I cut my childcare down to 12 hours a month if I work from home?
- Will my baby have speech delays if we raise her bilingual?
- Has anyone given birth in a teaching hospital?
- My child eats everything, and my friends’ kids do not – how should I handle? In general, what is the best way to handle when your child has some skill/ability and your friend’s child doesn’t have that skill/ability?
- ADHD moms, give me your tips to help with things like behavior in the classroom, attention to detail, etc?
- I think I suffer from mom rage…
- My husband and kids are gone this weekend – how should I enjoy my free time?
- I’m struggling to be compassionate with a SAHM friend who complains she doesn’t have enough hours of childcare.
- If you exclusively formula fed, what tips do you have for in the hospital and coming home?
- Could I take my 4-yo and 8-yo on a 7-8 day trip to Paris, Lyon, and Madrid?
GCA says
Small-chested people: What nursing camisoles did you like best? Baby is due next month and I’m on the hunt for a couple of new ones to replace my old, saggy, worn-out ones. (Camisoles, not boobs…) I always felt like I was swimming in the Target Gilligan & O’Malley ones everyone else likes so much, even the smallest size, and even at peak milk-coming-in boob. Glamourmom were a better fit but ran a little short. Suggestions?
Cb says
I really like the H&M ones – I do find them a bit baggy but I think I should have bought the M rather than L.
AwayEmily says
Old Navy, actually. They are not the best quality but they fit me better than any other ones.
GCA says
Thanks! Old Navy/ H&M are perfect for what I need. Intense wear for a couple of months, then a base layer for lounging around at home on the weekend.
anon says
I’m curious — how much of your “mom life” infiltrates your work life? Do you mention your kids a lot? Never? Only with certain people? Over the past year, I’ve found myself being less forthcoming about my family life. If my kid has a doctor appointment, I usually say that *I* have a medical appointment. I leave early on Mondays to take my daughter to swim lessons. People just know that I have a standing appointment outside of work and that I work through my lunch hour on Mondays. I’m a little more forthcoming with other parents, but not much. But I wonder if hiding that stuff is doing a disservice to the people who report to me, all of whom are younger than me and maybe could benefit from having an example of what working parenthood looks like.
I guess the bottom line is I still feel afraid of being judged as a “less than” employee because I have major commitments outside of work. My work always gets done, so that’s not an issue, but I have a real fear about not looking dedicated enough. But, I realize that may not be completely rational, and I’m not sure where to draw the line. I was actually more open about my parenting life when my kids were babies/toddlers than I am now.
AIMS says
I’m fairly open with people but probably more self depricating (?) about it than anything else. Like after I came back from my maternity leave I made a lot of jokes about how I was so happy to be back at work because I could finally eat lunch in peace. I think in some ways this is maybe how dads act more than the other moms I see. It is true in some sense. But I probably subconsciously play it up more than other aspects of my parenting?
Anonymous says
I mean, you’re not wrong. I would judge, hard, a coworker who left early for swim lessons. I’d love to leave early to swim to but I don’t bevause job.
Anonymous says
Eh, I wouldn’t, because I also leave 45 minutes early to take my kids to an activity one day/week during the school year.
But I think you’re right to keep this one close to the vest. Appointments are appointments to me, if I have a bunch of them close together, I’ll usually mention that some of them are for kids, just so no one starts speculating that I have a serious medical condition or am interviewing. IfI’m trapped in a meeting late in the day, I will let people know I have a hard stop to pick up my kids. I also specify sick-kid if I’m requesting work from home time on short notice. Otherwise, I don’t think it’s super relevant. I do talk about my kids & parenting adventures with coworkers who have kids around the same age.
Mama Llama says
I would hope that if a workplace allowed for flexible hours, it would apply to everyone. At my job, before I had kids, there was a time where I left early one day a week for a book club. I also left early at one point for tennis lessons. I would come in early to make up the time, and it was no big deal. No reason to judge unless the policy is being applied unfairly, and if that’s the case judge management, not the employee.
Pogo says
+1 Again, maybe my office is super chill but generally people are open about these commitments, even those without kids. I could actually tell you who in my office has Zumba on Wednesdays at lunch or meets with their trainer Thursdays after work.
Anon says
+1 one of my colleagues leaves early for an improv class once a week.
J says
Agreed…no one cares at my office so long as your work gets done and you are mostly available.
Anonymous says
+3. My office is super flex. I leave to do kid stufff, other people leave to do yoga or run errands or whatever. If there’s a double standard it’s the managers’ fault, not the moms’.
Anonymous says
This is great. I have a standing appointment for a personal hobby at lunchtime every other week, but the explicit instruction from my boss is to keep it on the DL. It must be really nice to work somewhere where you don’t have to treat your outside-of-work life like a dirty secret.
Cb says
I am pretty open about it – my colleagues have met the baby and ask about him. When my dad was watching him, he’d occasionally drop him off at the end of the day and everyone was happy to come and say hi. My boss kicked me out the door on my first week back when baby wouldn’t take the bottle. I’m an academic so flexi schedules are the norm.
My boss is great for this – when I first met her (long before I met my husband/thought about kids), we were on a conference call on her day off and she wrapped it up saying she needed to go play house with her daughter. I thought this was really impressive that someone at a senior level was owning her mom-identity.
Anon says
When managing up I rarely talk about my kid; neither do others at my (director) level. Most of them either don’t have kids or have much older kids + SAHW and I don’t want to leave the impression with them that I don’t belong in their club.
But when I’m talking to women who report to me or others who see me as a mentor, I’m open with what I’m doing so I can try to normalize the idea of women continuing to advance in their career after having kids. It makes me so sad to see smart, ambitious women drop out of the workforce because they assume they have to.
Anonymous says
This is pretty much what I do. I’m a senior associate in biglaw.
Betty says
My four year old is currently sitting at my desk, in my office with me while I review a file because her older brother is at his OT eval appointment with my husband. So…. I think that now I am more open about my kids, my commitments and that there are things that I need to attend to outside of work (including racing home to take my son to T-ball/baseball practice/swim practice/etc). But how I act, and my viewpoint, has gone in waves over the past few years. I have absolutely felt pressure to be the “ideal worker” who has no responsibilities outside of the office. My boss is great on this front, but admits to me that she was not that involved with her kids when they were young (or now). I think moms get very mixed messages on this front, but I’ve decided to own it (for today anyway — ambivalence, its real).
Pogo says
I guess it’s a know your office thing? People at my level and above often talk about their kids in a “what did you do last weekend” kind of thing.
I admit I have a pretty solid child care situation and a baby, so I don’t really need to make adjustments to schedule, etc. I do usually say that my son has an appointment or that he’s sick.
The only time it bothers me is when we have a standing meeting that has been on everyone’s calendar, and one guy in particular will decline at the last minute or leave early to pick up his kids. Dude, you knew about this forever. It is the same time every week. Either decline it in advance and email the organizer your updates, or attend it like the rest of us. To me it communicates that he doesn’t think the meeting is that important, so that’s more my beef than the fact that he’s picking up his kids.
Anonymous says
I was reacting negatively to the idea of talking about kids at the office, and then I realized that I was thinking of men who use “having kids” and their own heroic engaged parent identity as a get-out-of-jail card for anything they don’t want to do. I think it’s actually fine and not even particularly memorable in my experience when women who are reliable at work have mentioned their kids in conversation.
FVNC says
I’m pretty open about it, but this is consistent with company culture — even very senior managers will mention kids (although of course most of theirs are adults or college age, so different issues!). My first manager, the person who hired me almost 10 yrs ago, is a father with a wife who travels 75% of the time — one of the reasons I took the job working for him was because I knew he’d understand obligations of family life, even though at the time I didn’t have kids. Another manager leaves at 2:00 to meet her kids at the bus, and then works from home the rest of the afternoon. Of course, this woman has been with the company for decades and is very well respected, but still, she’s very open about the arrangement and I appreciate that so much!
The swim lesson thing would be perfectly acceptable at my company, as long as “early” means, like, 4 or 4:30 and you were back on line or responding to emails later in the day, if needed.
Anon says
I’m pretty open about it, but I’m in a small office of a large firm (~50 lawyers) and pretty much 95% of us have kids. Obviously only the associates have small kids, but talking about kids and family is pretty common and it’s kind of weird if you don’t (my husband calls my office the unicorn of BigLaw). We also have office bridal showers and baby showers too, so family is kind of big here. Partners and associates, more so in the summer, frequently have standing appointments to coach little league, do day-care drop off or pick up, etc. My husband occasionally brings my daughter to the office so she can do the rounds and say hi to people and then we grab lunch, and on summer Fridays, it is not uncommon to see other kids and parents doing the same.
SC says
I’m pretty open about my family in general, but not about my family obligations. So, if I have an appointment, I just put “doctor’s appointment” on the calendar, and if I leave early for a kid’s activity, I just leave and keep my phone on and check emails.
However, my firm has a lot of young parents (mostly men). I’ll join in chats about kids, weekends, family vacations, etc. I work in a small firm in a small city where everyone is seemingly connected (same schools, family connections, etc.). Many of my co-workers were friendly acquaintances before I started this job. My son goes to daycare with the kids of some of my co-workers (or grandkids of some of the older partners), and we see my co-workers and their families at the pool, at birthday parties, etc. Talking about some family stuff is part of the office culture.
GCA says
It’s definitely a ‘know your office’ thing, but my (small, 2-director, 10-person + 2-intern, half of us work remotely) office is fairly open – it comes up now and again in small talk, but I don’t assume my colleagues with kids want to talk about it all the time. Half of us have kids, mostly preschool to elementary school, and as long as we all get our work done and have an appropriate sense of urgency about it, there’s no issue with leaving early to do school or daycare pickup. That basically means being contactable and having a good sense of what’s time-sensitive for today and what’s not. I prefer to start early (international timezone wrangling) and lately have been scheduling all my OB appointments for, like, 4pm, after our Europe office is done for the day.
Lily says
Reposting this travel question from last week. Thanks to those who already chimed in. But since I started doing more research, I am overwhelmed with the choices. But love suggestions from those who have visited a place that made them think “I could live here.” Here’s my original post w/ some edits:
My husband has a sabbatical next year. 8 weeks off + 3 weeks vacation. So technically 11 weeks off. I have my usual 3 weeks off. But I have Ok from my boss to work remotely for a few weeks (I work for a European multi-national). I have always wanted to spend more time in Europe, and DH and I have been discussing where? He’s from eastern Europe, so we are thinking somewhere other than that region will be great. Since we’ll be in Europe, we can easily take a weekend to go visit family, or even have them visit us. We will have our currently 5 month old baby with us. Any suggestions for a family friendly, nice place? When to take this longish vacation? Air bnb or local rental? Any travel sites you recommend for research?
Fyi, I am seriously considering Barcelona or Seville. I spent 2 beautiful days in Seville two years ago. Never been to Barcelona. –> After some discussion with husband, he is thinking Italy or France (south of France), but south of France is a big region in itself!
Thank you!
Anonymous says
I’d go to England because I’d be more comfortable with a child care provider who speaks It fluently.
Cb says
I went to Bolzano for a conference and then went back on holiday the following year and can’t wait to take baby. It’s off the beaten track but has gorgeous weather and some really nice hiking and cycling. It was definitely a place I’d consider living in.
lala says
If you are considering Spain, look into Alicante. Awesome coastal town with kids. Playgrounds every block on the plaza, beach, etc. It’s on the train from Barcelona/Madrid. If he’s set on Italy, consider Lucca. Another great small town with lots of space for kids to roam. We much prefer a smaller town on the train line when traveling with kids. It has a more chill vibe, but still allows you to check out the bigger cities.
We prefer Air BnB with kids, but also look into Kid & Coe which is like an Air BnB but catered to kids. We haven’t tried it yet, but it seems cool.
Lily says
Thank you both for your suggestions! Bolzano & Alicante look great. I am going to do some series research into those places.
anon says
Office etiquette help: I just received a signed copy of a book written by someone who is in my reporting structure (a few levels above me). This person has a PhD. The inscription was signed with his full name (Firstname Lastname). How should I address the thank you note? Dr Firstname Lastname on the envelope? Dr Lastname in the note itself? Hmmm…
Anonymous says
An email, hey John thanks for the book! Susie.
Spirograph says
How do people address or refer to this person around the office? If you’re in a scientific or academic setting where he would be referred to as Dr. Lastname by colleagues, I’d do that. Otherwise, I would stick with first name for the salutation. Dr. Firstname Lastname on the envelope
Anonymous says
I’m in academia and no one calls colleagues “Dr. __.” First name basis always.
anon says
Thanks! Business setting so I’ll go w your suggestion. Appreciate it!
Pogo says
I think it depends if you’ve ever met him. Anyone I’ve met in person I’d address by first name.
Unless you are in Europe. They seem to be big on titles even for people you know really well, work with every day, etc.
lsw says
The End of an Era – this morning my husband and I shot out of bed because we heard music coming from our son’s room. (He can’t reach the CD player from his crib.) We found him playing quietly with his train table, his discarded (zip up!) sleep sack on the floor, with his CD playing Tom Chapin music. I never even saw him attempt to climb out of his crib before. RIP crib containment! (He turns two in about a week, so we made it pretty far.)
Cb says
Oh gosh! Toddlers sound simultaneously amazing and terrifying!
Mama Llama says
If you want to try to extend your crib time, you can turn the sleep sack backwards.
Boston Legal Eagle says
Aww… moving from a contained sleep device to complete freedom is scary! We recently moved our 2 year old to a toddler bed and it was a tough transition (felt like forever, but maybe about a month of crying and trying to open the door). He seems to have gotten used to the bed at this point. So amazing that your son just stayed in his room and entertained himself! I have a feeling the transition will go well for you.
lsw says
I know! He looked surprised when we both rushed in. He really enjoys playing independently!
Anonymous says
WHAT????? My kid is just a few weeks younger than yours and I’m gobsmacked by this. I’m impressed he can use a CD player…can you share what kind you have? We have a ton of kids CDs and books with CDs and I haven’t found a good way to use them.
Anonymous says
Three kids…how much more work is it than two? growing up I always thought I wanted three because I envied the sibling relationships my friends who were one of there seemed to have, but of course at that time I did not appreciate the difficulties of being a working mom. It seems like 3 might be too much, spread me too thin, but then since right now I only have 1 I don’t feel like I have a great sense of the marginal impact of an additional kid. A number of women at my demanding job have 3 kids, it seems to be like a status symbol (not in the the financial sense, or at least not only that, but in the “I run triathalons in my spare time from my master-of-the-universe job” sense (obviously kids and triathalons are different but that’s the best analogy I can think up).
Cb says
Laura Vanderkam and Sarah from the SHUbox have talked a lot about this – I think they might have a podcast about going from 2 to 3 and 3 to 4. I am noticing that 3 kids is the new 2 kids.
Anonymous says
Funny, I would have said 1 kid is the new 2 kids. I was an only in the 80s and it was weird, but I know so many people who are one and done now. I definitely think 3 is a financial status symbol in VHCOL areas though.
Anon says
+1. Around here it’s one and done or 2. We are the crazy people thinking 3 because I was one of 3 and 2 seems so lonely. My husband was an only child to older parents, so he is all about all the kids.
Anonymous says
I moved from a HCOL city to a MCOL city and can confirm that 3 is such a thing here.
anon says
Also in a MCOL city, in a fairly affluent neighborhood. I almost feel like an oddball because we have only 2, with no plans for more. 3 is definitely a thing. I have a less than charitable interpretation of the situation — seems like it’s the “I’m such a good and dedicated mom” status symbol. (Not saying you’re this way at all, OP, just a trend that I’ve noticed in my own corner of the world.) The dudes always seem to get talked into #3.
Ellie says
Anecdotally, three seems like the new two among affluent people in the NYC area.
Anonymous says
It was a LOT of work to add an infant to two other kids under 4, but infants are always a lot of work, as are toddlers and preschoolers at times.
Gently: I’m not sure it’s meaningful to try to quantify the marginal impact of an additional kid. There are real financial costs when childcare is involved, but you have quite a bit of control over time commitments based on your parenting style and priorities, and you can adjust based on the number of children. Yes, it’s important to spend some quality time individually with each kid, but most of the time, I am with plural kids, so it doesn’t make much difference whether there are 2 or 3 of them (talk to me again when they’re all in different extracurricular activities, I might change my tune). Of course it’s intensely frustrating when 2 year old runs one direction and 3 year old runs the opposite direction, but my 5 year old is pretty chill so I’m still only chasing two! I guess what I’m trying to say is that it depends on the kids’ ages and personalities, as well as your own parenting choices, more than straight numbers. It’s impossible to have a full time job and actively (helicopter) parent three kids to the same extent that you might be able to with one or two, but it doesn’t have to be “more work.”
Anonymous says
Useful take, thanks!
Anonymous says
Agree x100. My 5 y/o plays alone a lot, and also helps watch her sister. They don’t do a ton of activities and probably never will. They have built in playmates.
Anonymous says
I have three (5,2, infant). For our family, 1->2 was way harder than 2-> 3. My second has been chaos since she was born. My 3rd is a normal baby, as was my first. It’s expensive, but emotionally and logistically it wasn’t all that bad. My husband and I both have pretty accommodating/flexible jobs and we have a lot of care to help us out (paid). We bunked the older 2 and it cut down on the mess considerably.
Car seats/play dates/vehicle and stroller choices have been the biggest challenge for us. We have a big wide SUV and still bought new car seats and a new side by side stroller.
anon says
For me it was the total opposite. Mine are two years apart (0, 2, 4.5, now 5, 7, 9.5). I found 1->2 super easy, and 2->3 super hard. But, my 1st is super laid back and easy, and my younger two were more difficult in their own unique ways. One hard adjustment for me was that we could manage 2 on our own pretty easily, so it was easier to get “me” time in. Three was much harder to go solo.
Now, it’s slightly frustrating because I have two older boys and a younger girl. A second girl/playmate would be nice. I think 3->4 would not be so hard. But that ship has sailed.
AwayEmily says
These are all helpful comments, thanks. Not the OP but struggling with the same question. I was sure, sure, sure we would be done after two but now my second is five months and both my husband and I have been reconsidering. I don’t know — I just really like my kids, really like hanging out with them, my partner is a fantastic dad who does at least half the work…basically, my kids bring such enormous joy into my life and I kind of want to keep it coming (I will note here that both of them are in full-time daycare!). But I also worry that three would be the tipping point where it stopped being joyful and started getting a lot more difficult.
Anonymous says
That was us. We had 2, the second was really hard. We decided we love our kids, they are awesome, and if we were going to do a 3rd we had to go for it before things got easy again, or we’d never do it. So now we have 3 under 5, and in 18 months I’m hoping to have my life back + 3 adorable kids and minus a large amount of cash ;).
Boston Legal Eagle says
+1 I like reading these threads too. It’s so helpful to hear from those on the other side of 3. We’re still at just 1 plus 1 on the way, so who knows how we’ll feel after dealing with 2, but I keep having the 2 vs. 3 debate in the back of my mind. It doesn’t hurt that our 2 year old spent the weekend being an adorable talkative toddler, making me want to just multiply him. This is so so dependent on child personalities though. And to the OP, FWIW, my husband is one of 3 and isn’t that close to his siblings so there’s no guarantee that more siblings means that they’ll be close.
Anonymous says
I’m one of 3 and not close to my siblings, but they are a presence in my life and we certainly are on speaking terms. None of us bear the brunt of dealing with our (divorced and not remarried) parents- we each helpmout in our own way. My sister is emotional support for my train wreck of a mom, my brother lives in the triplex my dad owns and helps with home maintenance/rental property to help with that income stream plus does misc handyman/maintenance/physical labor type stuff for my mom who lives a few towns away and spends a lot of his free time hanging out with my retired dad (fishing, puttering, etc).
I provide adorable grandkids to dote on and provide financial/logistical support as needed (eg help mom do her taxes and plan for retirement, am planning to fund some of my moms retirement even though she will live with my sister, etc).
Anonymous says
I’m one of 3 and close-ish with both of my siblings, who are not close to each other. My mom is one of 4 and close to 2 of her siblings and not the 3rd. But my friend is one of 4 and she and her family are super tight. There really is an element of chance to it all.
Edna Mazur says
So mine are 4, 3, and 1. I think if you can handle two you can do three. It wasn’t as hard for me as going from one to two. The thing that changed for me from adding the third was I lowered my standards and started letting things go, just simply because I didn’t have time. The house is messier, the laundry stacks up more, meals are getting simpler.s. For us, it helps that activity-wise, the older two especially (being 15 mos apart) are into similar stuff and can be in the same activities for the most part. I’ve been told adding a fourth is a piece of cake, but…
Anonymous says
About 8 years ago (??) NYT had a story in the style section claiming “4 is the new 2” among a certain demographic. I definitely think more than 2 is a status symbol of sorts among high-achieving high-income segments.
But that’s not why we have 3. I wanted 4, DH wanted 2, and after we had 2, we both decided we were done. Except we didn’t take care of things and #3 came along (surprise!) and it has been awesome. Big kids were 5 and 7 when #3 was born, which is a GREAT age difference, because the first 2 are same gender and are about as close as you can expect them to be (like cats and dogs I guess). And they both dote on baby, even now that she’s mobile and getting into all their stuff. Baby is independent and social and adorable and the fact that we have big kids means we just have to drag her along to stuff – there’s no way to b
Is it hard? Yes, most definitely, going back to the diapers and naps and teething and and and…it’s hard. And traveling is a pain in the neck (hotels are built for 4 people!).
But also, another baby to snuggle, and remember how adorable a 1.5 year old is? Just pure sweetness and delight as they learn new things every day? So now not only do *I* get to marvel at that, but my first 2 kids delight in seeing THEIR baby be adorable, and that is awesome. And in terms of child care since the big kids were in school already the cost wasn’t so much an issue but the logistics are awesome and way simpler for a baby/toddler in an all-day center vs. stringing together various arrangements for after school activities and shuttling.
I don’t know what else to say except that if you feel your family isn’t complete yet, go for #3. You’re figuring out life with 2 and thriving, you can figure out life with 3 as well.
Seafinch says
I found three easier, if anything. They operate like a unit. There is some critical mass to it all that makes everything a bit more do-able. I am hoping for #4! It can be a bit busier but I don’t find it challenging, but we don’t do “activities” and I lean way out/drop the ball.
Anonymous says
I’m impressed he can operate a CD player!
lsw says
He loves to play with it! And yes, yes, we have a CD player in 2018.
Patty Mayonnaise says
Can anyone recommmend a flotation device for my 23 lb 15 month old to use to get a little independence in the pool (while still having an adult right there with him of course)? Would a puddle jumper work? Thanks, ladies!
J says
I cannot speak from direct experience, but I have a 26 pound 2.5 year old and have done a bunch of research on Puddle Jumpers. My conclusion is that they run large and you wouldn’t want to put a smaller kiddo in one.
This has been in my Amazon cart for a few weeks. I’ll probably order it soon:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B016BDWLM4/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER&psc=1
Anon in NYC says
My daughter, who is not an independent swimmer at all, really likes the bar floats in her swim lesson. They look like barbells and it’s basically the only time she motors around without clinging to a parent. She doesn’t like a pool noodle around her waist.
Spirograph says
Hm, my reply seems to have disappeared. The point was, I’ve tried a lot of the floaty things, and found that for that age it’s easier to just hold the kid in the water. Puddle Jumpers, and most others that are not a true life vest, will not keep a 1 year old’s face out of the water; kids that age simply don’t have enough body control yet (at least in my experience). 2.5-3 is the better age, regardless of weight.
CPA Lady says
A puddle jumper would be way too big. The minimum weight on it is 30 lbs and I didn’t feel comfortable letting my kid out of arms length in it when she was around 30 lbs. Maybe get one of those life vests with a crotch strap.
Anonymous says
My 2 y/o is about 25lbs and 34” and she’s really pretty small for a PJ.
GCA says
I always suggest pool noodles or barbell floats in this situation – the puddle jumper still doesn’t fit my 3yo and he’s 30 lbs and 39 inches tall.
Anonymous says
Someone hand-me-down’d us an “adjustable back float” (search on amaz0n for similar). We haven’t tried it yet, but you can make it super small and you can take the floats on/off to give more our less buoyancy. I wouldn’t think it would actually keep the kid’s face out of the water at that age, though.
Anonymous says
At what age did you switch your child(ten) from nanny only to nanny+ preschool or preschool/daycare?
We just had our 3rd kiddo and I’m sorting out what to do for childcare in the fall. I have a hunch of options, and work anvery flex schedule, but I’m trying to avoid hemorrhaging money. I need about 15- 20 hours/week of coverage. My kids are 4.5, 3, and newborn. Oldest will be 5 in the fall but will be in part time preschool. Middle just turned 2 and is currently in daycare 3 mornings a week. And we have a newborn. So I can either keep middle in daycare and add baby, extending hours to 3 full days/week or 4 half days, or I pull 2 y/o out of daycare and get a part time nanny. Would the toddler get enough social interaction with a nanny alone or would it make sense to supplement with a toddler type program? If the latter, how often? Our town has a 9:30-12:30 program you can do a couple mornings a week…but at that point I wonder if I shouldn’t just stick with daycare?
FWIW i make my own hours more or less so I’m a bit less reliant on the consistency of daycare- but it’s certainly a perk. Not sure it’s enough of a perk to outweigh the sickness that comes with an infant in daycare…. our daycare is extremely accommodating with adding extra hours/days/changing up days, which I’m not sure a nanny would be. I’m also not so sure they’d be as flexible once I have 2 kids there as both rooms would need to accommodate the change.
Anon in NYC says
My only child has been in daycare since she was 4 months old, and I don’t have a flexible schedule, so take this for what it is. If money were no concern, I’d probably hire a nanny for your newborn, keep your older children’s school schedules unchanged, and have the nanny do school pickup. That’s probably the most expensive option though!
I personally think that 2-3 year olds really benefit from the socialization of daycare/preschool, so I wouldn’t pull your 2 y/o out of his or her program. If maintaining that schedule + a nanny isn’t financially feasible, I’d probably putt your infant into part-time daycare.
Anonymous says
Honestly I second Anon in NYC. If you can afford it (even if you don’t WANT to spend that much), I really recommend keeping the 2 year old as is and getting a nanny for the baby.
Plus you’ll have coverage you don’t need to scramble for sick days when one of your 3 inevitably gets sick or has school closure or whatever.
But if you can’t then nanny + activities for 2-year-old (but the cost of those may end up rivaling day care).
Anon in NYC says
Just wanted to thank everyone who chimed in with movie recommendations last week! We watched Sing this past weekend, after reassuring my daughter that it was not scary, and she LOVED it! (Funnily enough, since so many people mentioned it, my husband independently commented that he didn’t love the rabbits singing Baby Got Back.)
J says
That is great! Sometimes we watch the last 15-20 minutes instead of a show if we’re in the market for just a little screen time.
SC says
We also watched Sing this weekend based on recommendations here. I have to admit that I liked it more than Kiddo did.
Anon in NYC says
I loved it too!
Anonymous says
I’m probably going to get flamed for this, but I could use some advice. I’m having a very hard time finding childcare I feel good about and am thinking about leaving my job to stay home. We live in a small town. There isn’t much in the way of licensed daycare and what there is has very long waiting lists for kids under 3. I went on care.com to try to find a nanny, but most of the people were very young and I couldn’t find anyone who was over the age of 21 and willing to be paid on the books.
We could get by on my husband’s salary easily, although I like the financial independence of earning income and I enjoy my job. We’ve been fortunate to have family caregivers for a while, so I’ve been back at work for almost a year and don’t think I would burn any bridges by leaving now. We will have way more daycare options in a couple years when she’s 3 so hopefully I will not be out of the workforce long, although I know that may be easier said than done.
I hate the idea of leaving my job just because I can’t find good childcare, but I think I hate the idea of leaving my child in a situation I don’t feel good about even more, especially when we don’t need my salary.
Anonymous says
How old is your kid? 1?
Have you looked at au pair options? What do other people that work with you do/what did they do in the past? What has changed so that you don’t have family help anymore? Could you do family help + part time preschool/nursery school? Near me those places start at ~15 months. Have you considered finding a SAHM who may want to pick up hours?
Not saying quitting is the wrong choice, just brainstorming.
Anonymous says
Yeah, I agree with this completely.
1- Mad respect for your situation. You have to be reasonably comfortable leaving your child in whichever childcare you choose. For some moms, there is never a “good enough” childcare – it does not sound like you are a mom like that.
2- It sounds like full-time childcare is not going to happen. So, agree with Anonymous at 12:40 suggesting an au pair, family, part-time nursery, anything so that you can continue to work a little bit. Could you work with your employer to drastically scale back, so that you only work 4 hours/day, or only 2-3 days/week? Could your H work from home one day/week (with a babysitter/nanny watching the child) so that you can go into your office that day? Or could H change his schedule to 4 10-hour days/week, and an extra day off?
3- Whatever you choose, you’ll figure it out. Don’t worry about the haters.
Anonymous says
+1 to the SAHM who wants to pick up hours idea. I have a friend who is a SAHM, but also is a nanny to another friend’s baby. It is a pretty ideal win-win situation if you can find it.
anon says
That’s a difficult decision, and I’m sorry you’re in the position of having to make it. Quality childcare is such a huge issue, particularly in lesser populated areas. You know your situation best, OP. If leaving the workforce is the right choice for your family, forget others’ judgment. Believe me, I know there’s all sorts of risks in leaving a good job for the unknown, but when you literally can’t find good childcare, well … the calculus is much, much different.
Sarabeth says
Personally, I’d offer over market for a nanny to let me keep working. Not saying that’s the right choice for you – and I think the right choice probably depends a lot on how easy it will be to go back to work in your specific market. For me, it would be hard to break back in, so I’d be willing to drop a lot of money (more than my salary, if necessary) to keep working. For enough money, I imagine you’d be able to find something.
AwayEmily says
Yes, this. Also, be very specific in your ad. It’s fine to say “Looking for someone with at least ten years of child care experience. Will pay $X an hour” (with X being more than average for your area). Try posting on NextDoor, Craigslist, on any local listservs, and posting flyers at places where you think likely candidates might congregate. Also look for any Facebook parents group for your area.
Also, I would be surprised if anyone here would flame you. I think most people on here have experienced trying to balance work and what’s best for their kid. This is an especially difficult instance of that. I agree with everyone else who says that you know what is best for your kid and your career, and you should trust that. Good luck!
Anonymous says
Brainstorming as well – my single mother hired grandmothers to watch me in our home. They were happy to supplement their Social Security and were very reliable, and of course, experienced. Perhaps you belong to a church or community group that would have ideas?
Anonymous says
ETA – Ideas on who to hire. These women wouldn’t be on care.com, ya know?
J says
Big hugs. We moved to a small town when kiddo was 10 months, and daycare was the worst part. Eventually, we ended up a at a center that we initially decided against because it seemed small and not pretty enough (especially coming from a much bigger city). i would still argue that they could use a bigger space, but the caregivers are so amazing. My only advice is don’t judge a book by its cover like we initially did. We are very pleased now.
Also, big support for whatever you choose. You know your situation best. Maybe you could even look at working on special projects periodically for your current employer if they get really busy. My MIL did that while my husband and his brothers were young, and then she went back to the same job when they were all in school with no problem.
Anonymous says
To add, my standards for infant care are MUCH higher (and much different) than toddler care. What might have been unappealing for annibdant May be fine as your kid heads toward 15 months. I wanted the old ladies that snuggle babies in an infant setting. For toddlers I want someone who is rolling around on the ground and doing messy art and reads.
Yes, you’ll always want strong supervision and frequent diaper changes but consider looking at centers with a toddler POV rather than infant and see if anything changes. Heck, if you pay enoughim sure some of the daycare teachers would quit and nanny for you. My sister worked in a daycare in Colorado and was laid $12.50/hr with pretty bare bones benefits. She took a nanny gig that paid a $35k/year salary plus health insurance in a heartbeat.
Seafinch says
Definitely consider an Au Pair. We have only ever done Au Pairs. You can use an agency and they take care of all of it (presuming you are in the US and it is the same as Canada). We have been delighted with the arrangement, the kids have gotten wonderful care, our lives are flexible and it is not overly expensive.
Lillers says
Any ideas for a babymoon trip in October? I’ll be around 22-23 weeks pregnant. We have considered Florida but my husband is concerned about the hurricane season. We normally are adventurous travelers, but I’m so exhausted I just want something relaxing.
Obviously destinations that have active Zika virus transmission are out. Thanks!
Anonymous says
Palm Springs.
Anonymous says
New England is absolutely beautiful that time of year. I’m partial to Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park, but there are lots of great destinations in Maine/NH/Vermont.
Boston Legal Eagle says
We just got back from Martha’s Vineyard from our semi-babymoon (I’m currently about 24wks) and it was super super relaxing and lovely. The island is not too big so you can spend some time just walking around the cute streets and eating all the amazing food, without feeling like you’re missing out on seeing a new city. Peak season there is summer so hopefully you will miss the crowds and still can see the island before winter hits.
If you’re closer to the west coast, Southern California will still be pretty warm around that time of year – San Diego is lovely. I’ve heard good things about the resorts in Arizona as well.
Anonymous says
Friend just went to bahamas, which looked awesome. I think it was just taken off the zika list!
Anonymous says
Victoria or Vancouver, B.C. I’m currently obsessed with them after seeing a movie I really liked with gorgeous views was filmed in the area.
Anon says
Phoenix or Scottsdale Arizona. October is a beautiful time of year out there.
Anonymous says
It’s still quite hot in October. I would go somewhere else!
Paging Infertility Woes says
Sorry, just saw your response on the Thursday thread. My husband was on some kind of hair pill to prevent baldness. I forget the name, but it sounds similar to the prozac studies- some pretty intense correlation. We were both a little floored because he had been on the pill for years, had a couple different doctors prescribe it when he moved around the country, and not one mentioned what it might do to his sperm- although as soon as his analysis came back the doctor told him to get off immediately. I’m sorry it’s a little trickier for you because it is mental health vs. vanity, but I would think it is certainly worth a conversation with his doctor about the meds he is on and potential alternatives.
Paging nanny/daycare question above says
Re nanny/daycare question
I am in Canada where the majority of kids are home with a parent until 12 months, so ymmv, but we did a nanny/grandparents from 13-25 months and then began full time daycare at 26 months. Our kiddo definitely needed social interaction etc as she approached 2 years old. This approach worked out really well for us and we hope to do the same for #2 but it will be a puzzle figuring it out with #1 in junior kindergarten and senior kindergarten.
J says
Any recommendations on a heel pad/insert/liner type thing for some shoes that rub the back of my foot a bit? I don’t want to give up on the shoes – I really like them and searched for something like them for quite a while. Thanks!
Anonymous says
Could you get some moleskin? That’s what I use for this type of situation.
J says
Do you put it on your heel or on the shoe itself? These are casual shoes that I envision wearing often when not at the office, so I am hoping to take care of the issue once, if that makes sense. They’re the only sneakers I’ve found for wearing with jeans that don’t make my feet look like absolute boats.
CCLA says
Not the anon, but you use it directly on your feet – I’ve found that if I do that for a few weeks, the shoes get broken in and eventually I don’t need to use it anymore, so maybe worth a shot? I suppose no harm in trying to put it directly on the shoe, just not sure how well it would adhere.
anon says
I use athletic tape.
J says
Do you have a brand or link? Sorry, I’m dense on this topic!!
J says
Never mind. I Googled it and know what you’re talking about. Thanks!
Rocker says
I’m expecting my first in November and am starting to look at nursery furniture. Do you all have any recommendations for a good rocker/glider? Do I need to spend an arm and a leg at Crate and Barrel or are the ones on offer at e.g. Buy Buy Baby good enough? I’d like something comfortable that rocks and has a back high enough to lean my head back on.
Anonymous says
Dutailier. We’ve had it for 6 years and it’s going strong. I do wish the cushion covers were remove-able so I could throw them in the laundry, but that is my only complaint.
Really, anything that is comfortable for you both physically and aesthetically is going to be fine. Pro tip: the height of the armrests is important
Anon in NYC says
We have a Dutalier glider as well.
Personally, I think you need to find something that you would feel comfortable sleeping in. I don’t want to say that that will wind up happening, but there have been months-long periods where either me or my husband has slept in the glider. Make sure it reclines enough for you. Caveat that we do not have room for a bed/couch + a crib + a glider + dresser in our daughter’s room, so if you have more space, this may not be applicable!
Anonymous says
Granted we bought it used and then moved it cross country, but our Dutailier glider recently FELL APART while I was sitting in it with our toddler– the wood just disintegrated and the whole thing collapsed. Scary although of course everyone is fine.
Boston Legal Eagle says
I’m pretty sure this is the one we have as well (got it at Babies R Us and the pictures look exactly like ours). I found it to be very comfortable and it’s high enough in the back to rest your head on. Ours has tons of stains but I don’t really care and it still looks fine.
Anonymous says
We got a Little Castle and I looove it. More than I liked the C&B ones, but they aren’t cheap either. Maybe try finding a used one if you want to spend less but on a nice one? Some people don’t seem to use their gliders much so you could luck out and find a nice one.
octagon says
Also a vote for Little Castle. I think we bought it through Buy Buy Baby. A relative who has helped out a bunch with child care recently asked where I bought it — she wants the same one for a reading chair at her house.
Anonymous says
Agree on height of the armrests being key. In my neck of the woods, these are something people are frequently getting rid of and are easy to find used. So if you want to save $$ and open to used furniture, look into it. We got a used Dutalier for free and it has been fine. Not the most comfortable thing ever but it fit our budget at the time. My husband reupholstered it and we are still using it 6 years later.
Anon says
I got a cheap standard model at BBB ~6 years ago. It has held up wonderfully for nightly use with two different kids (even after babyhood because that is where we read books together each night), but the cushions are kind of shot at this point. We’ve considered restuffing the cushions to try to extend the life, but honestly now that the kids are older, I think I’d rather spend the money to get a proper chair that is more versatile. I’m thinking maybe an arm chair for use as the current reading chair, but will also work as an adult chair when we eventually convert this room back to a guest room/office.
Long way of saying, the cheap ones are fine for 5 years or so. If you think you’ll be having kids (and need a dedicated rocker) on a longer timescale than that, maybe look into a better one if the cushions last longer. But likely at 5 years you’ll want to turn the room into a different use and may not have the same needs.
Anonymous says
I have the Babyletto Kiwi glider and I LOVE it. The built-in USB charger has been invaluable to have while nursing and it’s very very comfortable. Price is in between BBB and C&B.
Anonymous says
We have the smallest leather recliner we could find. It is a LaZBoy. Not sure of the model. It’s not pretty necessarily, but the comfort is so worth it. DH or I can easily sleep in it if need be. That has definitely happened. It wasn’t cheap, but I’ve seen more expensive. I’d encourage you to lean your head back when you try them out and see if you think you could snooze for a few hours in it.
Anon says
A nonconventional choice, but we went with a dark brown leather power rocker recliner (which was an arm and a leg) from Flexsteel and I would pay every penny again for it tomorrow. Maybe your child will sleep, but mine does not, and I have spent days of my life in that chair, and with the recliner part, it’s great for those nights when you have to sleep in the nursery too. For me, it was important to find a seat that was wide enough for both me and my husband (he’s a former football player, 4XLT and I’m a tall 14-16 for reference) (not together, but that fit each of us comfortably) and a baby and had a headrest that didn’t kick my head at an odd angle. I wanted washable slipcover or leather to stand up to all the baby fluids. My husband was fussy about padding in the arms and we both preferred pillow arms. He hated the swivels and the gliders; I didn’t want a rock that was too “loose” or too hard to rock with one foot. We sat in hundreds of chairs until we found a few we liked, measured out the dimensions for the parts we liked, and then ordered our flexsteel one that was the closest match to the combined measurements since we had experience with the brand. I told my husband the other day that that chair may be part of the reason we are still married (as he managed to snore through yet another middle of the night wakeup the night before).
anon says
We have one from Buy Buy Baby that we got 3.5 years ago. Aside from the dirt on the white (what was I thinking???) it has held up great. With a 3 year old jumping all over it.
CBG says
For the love of everything, get one that 1. reclines and 2. has a high enough back to rest your head on. I think our very expensive, cute and cushion-y swivel glider has ruined my neck and back forever. We too sat on 100 different gliders before choosing this one, but that’s not the same as sitting in one while nursing at 3am. The swivel was helpful when nursing required at least one hand and my water/phone/remote was always on the wrong side, but using a Brest friend instead of a Boppy would probably help with that problem. The gliding ottoman also isn’t helpful, and really hard to move, and is kind of dangerous for little hands and bare feet.
SC says
We bought one of the Pottery Barn rockers that converts into a regular arm chair. Three years later, it’s by far the most comfortable piece of furniture in the house. I read in that chair in Kiddo’s room sometimes when he’s not home. (The room also gets the best light.)
In House Lobbyist says
I went to a furniture store and picked out a small recliner that rocked. I picked the fabric. I also had them add the swivel so it wold turn all the way around $50. I have had it 8 years now and its just now outgrowing an 8 year old and 4 year for bedtime stories.
Pogo says
I am the voice of dissent in that I love our Poang from IKEA. I have probably nursed in that thing 1000 times and I have no issues, find it super comfortable. Maybe because I never tried out any fancy gliders or recliners?
Anonymous says
Also chiming in to suggest that a glider might not be necessary. I inherited one from a friend and it ended up being one of the least comfortable chairs for nursing, though I didn’t figure this out until I started experimenting with other chairs we already had in the house – armchairs, couch, even a dining room chair with a footstool below (combined with Brest Friend pillow) ended up working out better. Then again, my kid was unimpressed by the rocking motion, which I think is one of the reasons people buy gliders. Anyhow, all o fthis is to say that 1) gliders seem to be pretty person specific in terms of comfort, and 2) other types of seating might work too, including what you already have.
avocado says
My baby and I didn’t like the glider either. It got almost zero use, and then when baby became mobile we got rid of it because we were afraid she’d pinch her fingers in it.
Rocker OP says
Thanks everyone, this is really helpful! I am in DC and haven’t had luck finding many options used on Craigslist– are there other places I should be looking for used models?
Anonymous says
In NYC there are a lot of neighborhood-based parent/family email listservs. If you have similar email or FB groups in DC, I would look there.
AnotherAnon says
We’re moving to a suburb of Houston and I’m looking for day care recommendations (general and specific). Our current day care was “good enough” but I’d really like somewhere that follows RIE, which I know is a lot to ask. Basically, do you know of any chains or places in Spring that give kids a lot of independence, but also teach them to respect each other? My LO is 16 months.
AnotherAnon says
I should have worded that better: we’re moving from Houston to Spring.
Anonymous says
RIE? You’re dreaming.
Anon says
If you’re on f@cebook, I would look for parents’ groups specific to the area and ask there. I’m also in Houston, but in a different area, and that’s where I got the most valuable information (other than personal recommendations).
Anonymous says
Does RIE have some kind of directory of trained providers?
Anonamom says
I just found out I’m roughly 4 weeks pregnant. We are excited but anxious as this was unplanned and my last pregnancy ended in miscarriage. I just called to schedule my first appointment and was given the following options for dates:
Option 1: Exactly 7 weeks from the date I am pretty sure my last period began. Caveat that I could be off by a day or two and I could therefore be earlier than 7 weeks.
Option 2: Exactly 8 weeks from the date I am pretty sure my last period began. Our concern here is that my husband and I are both pretty consumed with anxiety given what happened with my last pregnancy and the earlier we get good (or bad) news, the better.
I am leaning towards the 7 week appointment because it’s going to be difficult to wait even that long to find out if the pregnancy is viable. But, I’m concerned we won’t see a heartbeat despite everything being fine, and torture ourselves until we could be seen again for a followup ultrasound.
This may be too late in the day to get many responses, but what would you do?
Anon says
As someone who understands the pregnancy-after-miscarriage thing, I would likely do the 7 week one, but I’d ask their policy if no heartbeat is detected. How long do they make you wait for a follow up? How many follow ups do they do? What other things can you/ they do in the meantime (pee tests for HCG levels, etc)?
And I’d make sure it’s written all over my file what my circumstance is, and I would mention it to the Ultrasound Tech the second she stepped into the room, so she’d know exactly where my head will be at. I’d also ask to schedule with their most experienced tech. I want one who will go for the heartbeat asap and reassure me quickly before getting to any of the other pieces.
Anonamom says
Thanks. The doctor has been my OB/Gyn for a long time and, if possible, would schedule a follow-up early the following week (so about 5 days later). He was the person who delivered the news about the last pregnancy, counseled me about my options and performed the D&E, so he will know where I’m at. He’s awesome.
S says
I would do 8 personally, the extra week would be hard, but not hearing a heartbeat and then having to wait an additionally week would be harder for me. It’s so personal though.
Lana Del Raygun says
Can I just wear empire-waist dresses instead of “real” maternity dresses, assuming they’re long enough, or is there something else about how maternity dresses are designed?
Anonymous says
No absolutely not. Your belly will pull weirdly on the dress making it too short in the back. It will not be pretty.
Lana Del Raygun says
I would’ve expected them to be too short in the front, not the back. Can you explain more?
Anonymous says
Yeah, I think it depends where you’re at in pregnancy. I think you could wear them for a while, but eventually will probably get too big for them. I would have anyway! Keep in mind that even if they do stretch to fit you, they’ll probably permanently be stretched out and “ruined” depending on your future needs.
Lana Del Raygun says
Yeah, I was thinking of dresses with big full skirts but I forgot to mention that.
Lana Del Raygun says
*long enough and full enough
anon says
That probably won’t work for long. Maybe through the early part of the second trimester, if you’re lucky. Your ribcage will expand, in addition to the stomach and b r e a s t s, and the proportions are just different.
Lana Del Raygun says
I’m about halfway through the second trimester, but I’d be buying them now anyway. I’m just not finding a lot of maternity dresses that I like. :(
Anonymous says
No. You aren’t special. You need maternity dresses like every other pregnant woman b
GCA says
I tried that once :) While my looser/ maxi dresses technically still fit, proper maternity wear looks so much better in the third trimester. This is my 2nd pregnancy and maternity clothes were still laughably flappy in the belly at 24 or 25 weeks. 10 weeks later, I’m not laughing any more…
Anonymous says
As noted they may get too short in front depending on the length. Your ribcage may and bust will certainly expand, so your pre pregnancy empire waist dresses may not fit for all 40 weeks. I also don’t find, at 34 weeks, that loose dresses are flattering to my specific figure/bump, so I’m not wearing those empire waist maxi dresses I already had (one maternity, one regular). Which is to say you might be able to wear them or might not.
anon says
Yeah, I’m thinking that’ll be a waste of money soon. Look for stuff that’s as plain as possible. I found my favorite maternity dresses at Kohl’s and Old Navy. They were super basic, but comfy. I was able to dress them up for work with shoes and accessories.
Betty says
I realize that the likelihood of this being read is slim given the time of day, but I need to put this out there. We have been on a journey with our oldest toward an ASD diagnosis, or some variant of ASD. My son went for an OT eval this morning. I don’t have the full picture from my husband quite yet, but their immediate recommendation was to start him on an hour of OT therapy per week. The OT place is close to where DH works but about 30-45 minutes from home and school. They indicated that this would not be a short term thing, but that we would start and reevaluate in a year (oof). My normally stoic husband was teary when we met to hand off our daughter (she spent the morning with me at work). I looked at our health insurance, and it looks like we will need a diagnosis prior to starting OT, which we probably won’t get until November/December. I’m overwhelmed at the logistics (OT + play therapy +… from diagnosis = how will we continue to both work full-time), scared for what this looks like for my son (is that wrong to say?), and sad that my son has to go through this. I’m sure by morning I’ll be back to my usual, “we’ve got this!” mantra, but for now, I want to cry.
SC says
I’m sorry you’re dealing with all this. My son is in OT, and we’re trying to get into a play therapy group, for some issues that overlap with ASD. It can be challenging and overwhelming to deal with the logistics of it all. You’ve got this!
Take things one step at a time. We started our process in February. First we were on the psychologist’s wait list for a month. Then her evaluation process took a month or two. We had to push hard for a diagnosis so insurance would cover OT. Then we were on the wait list for OT. We started that a few weeks ago, and we’re adding some exercises at home this week. Next, we’re going to work on getting into the play therapy group.
Are there any options for OT closer to home and school? Our OTs can also visit the school and work with kids there–is there any chance of this being an option?
Anonymous says
I’m sorry. You are allowed to feel overwhelmed and sad and mad and whatever else you feel.
I wish I had something more helpful to add, but you will get through this.
Anonymous says
Hugs. No real advice. Just be analytical about the logistics. It’ll be hard, but you seem like a really amazing woman. I wish I had something better to say. Hugs and virtual support!!!
For betty says
Not threading, but wanted to say I read your post – it sounds really tough. Lots of snuggles to all and hope the login fall into place fairly easily.