I haven't gone through this, so no advice. I'm praying for you and your little one, Janna.

Yes, what she said! You have a right to cancel within 3 days for any reason. You should have a sales receipt that provides that information. If you don't, cancel the check. Here's my advice on how to help yourself say no. Make a "family policy". Blame it on your dh if you have to. ;) But make a policy that you will not buy anything from door to door salespeople, over the phone, etc. Or if you just really like to talk to these people, make it a policy that you (or your dh) will not buy anything from door-to-door or over phone without consulting the other. Then you can "blame your policy" rather than have to come up with reasons/excuses. "I'm sorry, but we have a policy of not purchasing these items without consulting the other spouse. I'll be happy to take information on your product." Repeat as often as necessary. Do not try to think of other reasons. Do not give in to the pity party. Just repeat your line as many times as it takes!

I have Preschool Activity Bags, which is a great book, but if your dd is almost five the activities may be too young for her. Here's a list of ideas on Paula's Archives.

Gail, I'm praying that God will provide what is best for your family. :grouphug: Do keep us posted!

Congratulations! What a blessing for your family!

Sharon, I'm so excited for you! I can't imagine being without a kitchen for that long. You have had a long haul...I'm so glad you're getting to enjoy the results of all your hard work. Can't wait to see pictures! :)

What she said! :D I felt like there were a lot of short answers on the old board because of the format. I think this format actually lends itself to more conversation, because people are more likely to write a few sentences than just enough to fit in the subject line.

Happy birthday to your dh! I do know what you mean. My dh is 5 years younger than me. When he turns 40, I'll be feeling old (creak....groan...:ack2:)

I don't think it's necessarily a "brat" thing or a sense of entitlement. For me, I'd often rather wait to get what I really want. It's usually worth the waiting! As for the little things...give me one small scoop of Ben & Jerry's over a whole bowl of store brand ice cream any day!

This sounds so wonderful! You are very thoughtful. We will have a guest bedroom & bath once our basement is finished. I'm going to come back to this post so I can copy your ideas!

Ahhh....how fun for you! I order my first soaps from Amy a few months ago. Never going back to the old stuff...I love Foil Hat soap!

I used the Avent Isis with all three of my boys. Loved, loved, loved that pump. I used it quite a bit, since my boys all spent time in the NICU for high bilirubin levels, then two of them had a hard time learning to bf. I did use the double electric when I was in the hospital, but I was happy to ditch it and use the Avent at home. It's comfortable and actually very quick once you get used to using it. A little more effort, but it's not like you can actually do anything while you're "hooked up" to the electric one anyway! :D It's also very portable and easy to clean.

I'm so glad to hear this! It's so nice to stop all the extra stuff - bili blanket, daily lab visits...blech. Enjoy your little one!

Happy birthday, Mindy! :hurray: Welcome to the forties - I hope you like it here. ;)

Hmmm....my sons are currently devouring the classic and highly academic series called Amazing Athletes. ;) Along with some Magic School Bus (my ds6 loves these) and a little Magic Tree House on the side. :laugh: I'm glad they love to read, and I try to steer them toward a good variety.

Whisperlily, I'm so sorry. I'll be praying for you and your family as well as for the soldier's family. :grouphug:

I'll never forget that accident or this story...the accident happened in our area. These two families have handled an unbelievably difficult situation with such grace. Thanks for posting the link. I knew they had a new book, but I would have never caught it on tv!

Amazing! Beautiful baby....glad to hear all is well with him.

I want to make Pioneer Woman's beans, but in the crockpot. Do I need to boil them or soak them overnight first?

You guys are way too funny. :lol: How fun that you were able to get together!

I'm interested in hearing more about it too. I looked at it very seriously last summer, but didn't end up buying it. Still thinking about it for next year!

Our three boys all had a nice little stay in the NICU due to high bilirubin levels. We were able to take them home once their levels went below 12. So 11.5 is high enough to do treatment, but not something to make you worry. :001_smile: Just keep him under the blanket as much as you can, and keep him drinking and pooping. That will make the levels keep going down.

Have a great time! I'm a bit jealous...maybe next year I'll be there.

Praying for you and your family!

:ohmy:...snort......gasp.......:w00t:.....breathe... :rofl: Brief moment of major panic for poor Mrs. H! You are bad. and so funny.:D