Anonymous wrote:Ear infection? Is he pulling at his ear at all? Does he feel warm?

Yeah, pain cry is definitely distinctive and you'd probably notice a different pitch in his cry if it was pain.

Teething? Lots of drool, hands in his mouth, flushed cheeks?

If no to any medical issue or teething, do you use a pacifier? I'd offer the paci first, at the onset of crying. Give 20 mins of so to settle back down or give pacifier, pat his tummy and let him CIO again if it's not time for a feed. Barring any medical issue, I don't pick up to soothe- I leave the baby in the crib unless time for a feed. Also, do you use a lovey of some sort? It's good to introduce a soothing plush or blanket of some sort associated with bedtime and leave it in the crib. White noise? Do you have a fan in his room?

I hear you. I got really accustomed to having lots of time to myself, lots of reading, internet, tv... and without those things when my first child was born, I never felt grounded.

It does get easier. But being a parent isn't all rainbows and butterflies, that's for sure. There is SO MUCH guilt! I used to talk to my first child ALL day long and it exhausted me... because I felt like if I wasn't talking, she wasn't learning... I don't think you ever get away from all that guilt.

I used a cloth diaper service with my first because I couldn't possibly fathom washing my own diapers... I can't believe people have time for that.

Don't put too much pressure on yourself. I'm sure you are doing a good job.

I'm looking for a Chiropractor in Ashburn or maybe Sterling.

Before I moved to this area, my entire chiro appointment including adjustment was 10 minutes long and I had great results in reduction of headaches and sciatic nerve pain. I'd love to find someone like that again. Any ideas?

A good hotel for location and for rooms that are good with kids is DoubleTree Suites by Hilton NYC - Times Square.

I actually knew someone with a Bugaboo and it wouldn't fold and the wheels fell off. If that makes anyone feel better!

Anonymous wrote:I think people who buy those travel systems monstrosities are horribly misinformed or just stupid. what makes you think that a huge stroller or tiny wheels is going to work at all?

Yup. And I also think people must not realize there are other options out there. You can buy strollers in places other than Toys r Us and Walmart and for a bit more you might get a LOT better.

As a gift GIVER, I prefer to get some suggestions or a wish list. Makes it much easier for me and I like that I will be giving them something they want or need and will use vs. something that sits around or gets re-gifted.

Thanks all. That helps!

Anonymous wrote:
[I have a co-worker whose soon to be stepsons were still calling her Miss firstname about a week before the wedding-is that common? It was just so strange to me.]

That would be strange to me too!!

Sorry if it's been asked before. I searched briefly and couldn't find any threads on the topic.

I'm struggling with how much to spend on a kid's birthday gift. Does it depend on the age? On whether they're a close friend? Same question for my nieces and nephews. When I was a kid $20 was normal but what's "normal" now?

Anonymous wrote:OP, I am in a similar situation with my mom, and I have to say, it has been a big factor in our recent decision to try for number two. My sister is ten years younger, and while she's not in a position to help out that much both due to financial and geographic limitations, having someone else I can just talk to freely and share mutual frustrations about my mom with has been sooooo important. As the PP said, while there's no guarantee the siblings will have that sort of relationship, without a sibling you are guaranteed they will not have anybody like that to lean on.

Nicely put.

Missing pieces (puzzles especially) drive me nuts.

Ripped books just make me sad.

When I was a kid we always called friend's parents Mr Last name and Mrs Last name.

I don't care if they call me Mrs./ Ms. First Name or Mrs. Last Name. I think it teaches respect for parents as authority figures to not be called by their first names by kids' friends.