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Dear UrbanBaby community,

Thank you so much for being a valued member of the UrbanBaby community. We wanted to inform you that we are shutting down the site on July 6th. We are grateful for your participation and support that has helped make UrbanBaby such an important resource to parents for many years.

If you have any questions or concerns, you can email us at urbanbaby-support@cbsinteractive.com.

Thanks so much,

UrbanBaby Support

[ - ] Still on maternity leave, going back in a few months and am completely freaked about getting a nanny. As I stroll through the park with DS, they talk on phones, sit with other nanny's and chat, and completely ignore DC. And this is in public, what is going on at home?? DC propped in front of the TV??? 44 Replies [ Reply | Watch | More
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Newborn 07.07.08, 10:47 AM Flag
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wow, not all nannies are like that. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:47 AM Flag
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np: I hear you, I am in the same position, just have to trust the references, often they will tell you that other moms see their nanny out and say how great she is [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:48 AM Flag
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that's what you think [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 01:09 PM Flag
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Actually, I was a nanny and I was not like that AT ALL - completely engaged with the kids, running around with them at the park, singing, dancing, making up games. at home we read together, played, cooked and only had the tv on (parents approved of course) when I was cooking dinner and couldn't watch them or if we were having a "movie night" together. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 01:11 PM Flag
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^^ actually, my DH and I just visited one of the families I used to work for this weekend. The mom started telling my dh about how she once found me with her kids (dds ages 2 and 4 at the time) in the park, sitting in a meadow making clover chains and singing. She said it was like the Sound of Music and she was so happy to have me as a nanny. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 01:14 PM Flag
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DON'T FEED THE TROLL!! [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 01:18 PM Flag
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who is the troll (which post?) [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 01:19 PM Flag
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OP: are you calling me a troll? Why would you do that? [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 03:14 PM Flag
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do you have a relationship with your mom? [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:48 AM Flag
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I was picking my dd from summer camp on friday and a nanny with a 3yr old broke her sandal. She was so pissed off about her sandal breaking she totally took it out on the little boy. As they were entering the camp, she smacked the back of his head and yelling WOULD YOU WALK ALREADY. I was shocked [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:49 AM Flag
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and did you call the mother? I hope so..... [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:50 AM Flag
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or: I have no clue who this nanny was there to pick up. Never saw them before. I asked some of the other moms nearby if they knew the family but no one did. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:51 AM Flag
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I would tell the camp..... [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:58 AM Flag
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Gee, I'm sure this really helped the OP. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:50 AM Flag
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Don't freak out. You will interview enough nannies, and speak to enough former employers, that you will come to feel comfortable (as much as possible) with the person you ultimately hire. You will also do a test period with this person, when you are at home, so you can observe how she is with your db, how your db reacts to her. The reality is, there is some down time involved in child care (as strange as that concept seems to you right now!), and it's good for nannies to get out & socialize. It's a very natural thing that develops as kids play together at the playground. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:49 AM Flag
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You should be afraid. Get a nanny cam -- I had to fire one after 6 days and she interviewed great, good references, clean background check. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:55 AM Flag
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What was she doing? [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:56 AM Flag
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Giving db either tylenol or benadryl (couldn't tell) and then lied when I asked her if she did it. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:57 AM Flag
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To make the kid sleep? [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:58 AM Flag
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not op, seriously, i want to know too. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:57 AM Flag
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what did she do? [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:57 AM Flag
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OP: I interviewed 2 nanny's with great reference letters, but when I called previous family never got a call back. What does that say? DS has stomach problems, he's mine and I love him, so I have the patience to walk him through it, but not convinced someone else will. Unfortunately my mom still works, but thankfully can do the occasional babysit. Everyone says " word of mouth", but end up talking to more nannys who want to get their friends jobs, than picking up someone's beloved nanny. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:58 AM Flag
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Where are you? When I was looking, I looked on Craig's list and prenatalyoga.com (UWS) and only was interested in following up on postings from families. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 11:00 AM Flag
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I wouldn't trust Craiglist, it's pretty easy to fake a posting from a family. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 11:04 AM Flag
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Once you have read enough of those posts, you can tell whether it's fake either from the post itself, or the initial email, or at worse, the initial phone call. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 11:06 AM Flag
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I'm on the UWS and have been asking nannys in the building. Nanny xchange is a great resource, I called a few but they want to start now and I wouldn't need someone til Sept. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 11:05 AM Flag
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Keep at it. It can take a while. And you can always pay an agency too. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 11:07 AM Flag
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It's not a good sign if you can't reach the families by phone. It could be they're away for the summer or something though. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 11:01 AM Flag
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You'll get through it. You already know the kind of things you don't want and stress them during the interview process. And check all references. It is frustrating and you may have to get rid of one and hire another until you find the right fit. But will happen. And make sure you sign db up for classes at a Gymboree type place, so you know db is getting some kind of activity/interaction in. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 11:00 AM Flag
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I was freaked out about this too, but I love my nanny (found her through word of mouth). She does sit with other nannies and chat, but those nannies take care of DCs who have become my DS's friends. She does chat on the phone from time to time (as do I), and she may occasionally watch some TV (as do I), but DS loves her--has been excited to see her from day 1--and I know she's doing a great job. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 11:08 AM Flag
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good points. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 11:33 AM Flag
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You are interviewing a little too soon...the best nannies get snatched up immediately....look next month , at the soonest. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 11:08 AM Flag
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OP: thanks for the positive reinforcement. just a new mom with no mom friends in the city (everyone escaped to the burbs and stay home) and feel out of the know when it comes to being a city mom. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 11:16 AM Flag
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our wonderful babysitter is looking for something f/t as our kids will both be in school in the fall - they are out there - keep looking. post here and i bet you get some good recs...or if you want to post your email i will put you in touch with our sitter. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 11:18 AM Flag
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OP: not comfortable with posting my email, but I appreciate the offer. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 11:34 AM Flag
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np: OP, for your child, you can get comfortable doing lots of things! Someone just offered you a grear reccomendation for a nanny and the timing is perfect. Go sign up for a gmail account or post your email inside in a format liek this < namename (at) company (dot) net/com so it can't be trolled. I've never had an issue doing this here. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 11:38 AM Flag
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OP: You're right. If you'd still like to provide me with your wonderful babysitter's info, I'm momushaK (at) gmail (dot) com [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 11:48 AM Flag
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[ Removed by moderator ] [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 01:00 PM Flag
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itda. yes there are bad nannies, but you do your homework, check references, have a sahm friend observe her in the playground and report back, etc. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 01:21 PM Flag
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I WOHM 4 days and did daycare, which is another option. I don't feel like I only see bad nannies though, and my friends with older kids that talk don't all suddenly reveal evil behavior is going down. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 01:17 PM Flag
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so do daycare or sahm. nannies clearly aren't for you. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 01:19 PM Flag
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OP: I'm sure their are great nannys out there, but it seems i rarely see a nanny actually interacting with the kids. I have never seen a nanny reading to a DC. i'm not saying i see any kind of neglect, just more watching than nurturing. This person will be with my DC more than I will, how can I trust that my child will receive the same are from someone I found from a newspaper. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 01:37 PM Flag
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nanny poster above - honestly, if you want that kind of nanny hire a college student who really loves kids. They are the most likely to engage your kids, read with them, etc [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 01:38 PM Flag
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One thing to consider: your budget assuming you have flexibility Consider the level of education of your nanny. It is not everything - you want someone who loves kids, has great references, etc... but having a high level of education helps a lot. We found a great nanny through an agency, so did our close friends. Both are from South America, highly educated and came to this country after the economies collapsed in Columbia and Argentina. Agencies can be very helpful if this is what you are looking for. Their comp is high though: we pay $1,000 per week + significant year-end / stay bonus + healthcare. College / grad students are another option but unlikely on a full-time, long-term basis. Good luck. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 02:50 PM Flag
[ - ] Crying it out: at what age would you start letting baby CIO? Baby is almost 4 months. At night she falls asleep nursing but daytime when I try to get her to nap I have to rock her and sing to her and put her down when she is asleep if she is awake or wakes she cries, do not want to create a habit i won't be able to change, just nervous for the whole CIO thing. Advice please!! 7 Replies [ Reply | Watch | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:45 AM Flag
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With DS we waited until 9 months, but he was a preemie. DD we did CIO at 5 months. It took two nights and we were done. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:47 AM Flag
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[ Removed by moderator ] [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:47 AM Flag
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4.5 months old, worked like a charm. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:52 AM Flag
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op: tell me how u went about it, thx [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:53 AM Flag
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i noted the times he woke up during the night and set my clock for 1 hour earlier. i did dream feeds with the maximum he drinks at night and took away 2 oz every night until he wasn't getting anything. he doesn't equate crying with feeding because i am waking him up to feed. after 4 nights of this he has never woken in the night again and there was minimal crying. does this make sense to you? it's hard to convey on the page. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 11:43 AM Flag
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we did it around 4.5 months for nighttime (took 10 minutes 2 nights in a row) naps were harder. started around 6 months. took much more crying than nights (maybe 30 minutes) and more days, but at 8 mo, ds is pretty good sleeper, though his naps are still a little short sometimes [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:58 AM Flag
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op: thx [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:58 AM Flag
[ - ] Something you thought you'd never do to save a buck- me, eat the heels of the bread. $4.50/loaf sheesh! 1 Reply [ Reply | Watch | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:42 AM Flag
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What kind of bread are you buying? [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 12:10 PM Flag
[ - ] my father just told me that he's having a get together on saturday at 1 pm, precisely when he knows that db naps. i have the right to be annoyed, right?! i'm feeling very annoyed 31 Replies [ Reply | Watch | More
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Toddler 07.07.08, 10:39 AM Flag
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no, you don't [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:41 AM Flag
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he must have forgotten that all others in HIS social circle must revolve around your db nap schedule. shame shame - what's his address, I'd like to egg his house. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:42 AM Flag
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you have the "right" to feel whatever you feel. You don't have the right to demand that the world operate on your schedule. Just go after nap or let DB skip for once. Won't kill him to miss a nap now and then [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:42 AM Flag
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How dos this affect you? Do you live with your father? [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:42 AM Flag
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we're expected to show up at 1 [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:44 AM Flag
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your baby can nap early or late. You make adjustments once in a while. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:46 AM Flag
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just tell him "Ok, we'll be there at 3 when db is up from his nap. I'm sure you wouldn't want a cranky toddler ruining your party!" [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:46 AM Flag
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np: ITA. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:47 AM Flag
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op: thanks you two...problem is, it's in jersey, so we wouldn [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:47 AM Flag
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wouldn't get there 'til after four if we waited for his nap to be over [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:48 AM Flag
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np: won't he sleep in the car? [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:49 AM Flag
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This seems to be the only option, or showing up early and putting db down for a nap at your dad's house. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:50 AM Flag
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How are you getting out there? Car? Db can nap in the car, right? [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:49 AM Flag
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I agree. Either a car nap, or put db down early. Personally, I would do a car nap and then leave the party as soon as db got cranky. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:52 AM Flag
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we don't have a car..takes three trains to get there. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:53 AM Flag
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no, you really don't. get over it [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:43 AM Flag
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You have one child, right? [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:44 AM Flag
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The world can't revolve around your db's nap schedule (although I agree that would be nice)... Just go afterward. Or get db up a little earlier in the AM so he'll nap a little earlier. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:45 AM Flag
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am i the one who thinks grandparents should accommodate their grandkids a little bit? [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:45 AM Flag
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what's wrong with saying, 'hey dad - that sounds great! We'll be there as soon as we can after baby wakes up! what can we bring? [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:50 AM Flag
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op: i should've mentioned, it's in jersey [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:46 AM Flag
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db will nap in the car on the way there, then he'll be ready to party [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:47 AM Flag
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that would be true if we had a car..but we have to take 3 trains to get there, so he won't nap with all the switching [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:49 AM Flag
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how old is your child? Have you seriously never adjusted schedule for things one in a while? [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:49 AM Flag
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he's 2. of course we've adjusted before..but it never works out well. some kids really need routines [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:52 AM Flag
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i think you really don't want to go to the party and are using your child as an excuse. get over yourself, go or don't go - i think you've used up all your excuses. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:51 AM Flag
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then either rent a car for the day or just tell your dad that you won't be able to come. Unless the party is specifically for you or your child, it's no big deal -- you just miss one party. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:53 AM Flag
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there you go! [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:49 AM Flag
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it's Jersey..not like you are flying to LA from NY [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:52 AM Flag
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why does his get together have to revolve around you? [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:50 AM Flag
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Wow, so the world revolves around db's nap now? [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:56 AM Flag
[ - ] Does anyone know about the sprinklers next to the Museum of Natural History, i.e. are they open, hours of operation, etc.? Thanks. 6 Replies [ Reply | Watch | More
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New York City 07.07.08, 10:38 AM Flag
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they were open 2 weeks ago when I went. Don't know the hours. I'll bet it's on their website though [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:39 AM Flag
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I went on their website but didn't see anything. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:40 AM Flag
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hhmm....sorry. Don't know. I just went and they were open. I didn't think too much about hours. I just assumed they would be there during the day [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:41 AM Flag
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They were open yesterday. Don't know the hours. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:40 AM Flag
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Thanks. Where exactly is it? Just to the right of the museum if you're facing it, correct? [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:45 AM Flag
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Behind the museum. Columbus Ave. side closer to 81st. They do not allow towels on the grass. Do not allow water guns and can get weird about kids changing in/out of their bathing suits on the grounds. Not sure what else you are supposed to do! [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:49 AM Flag
[ - ] Any recs for a "man with a van" in Fairfield county - need help with a small local move. Thanks. 2 Replies [ Reply | Watch | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:37 AM Flag
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check the westport news [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:40 AM Flag
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check craigs list. sorry but i dont have a recommendation [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:54 AM Flag
[ - ] Here's a challenge. Can you think of a good wedding gift that can be bought at Barnes and Noble? Doesn't ahve to be a book. 16 Replies [ Reply | Watch | More
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New York City 07.07.08, 10:36 AM Flag
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I know a funny one - The Joy Of Cooking and The Joy of Sex - side by side in the box. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:37 AM Flag
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that is awesome! I got the first one as a wedding gift but it would have been so much better with the other one too! [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:37 AM Flag
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Thanks! [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:39 AM Flag
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this is actually very cute! [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:39 AM Flag
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that's a good one. i'm going to keep that in my back pocket for the next wedding or shower i'm invited to. are they available in paperback? [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:39 AM Flag
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probably, but they make a better show in hardcover (and personally - I don't enjoy paperback cookbooks) [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:42 AM Flag
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ITA [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:42 AM Flag
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got the 20% off coupon eh? [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:37 AM Flag
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Dh and I traded in all of our credit card points for B&N giftcards, with a promise to each other that all gifts for people in the next year will be from B&N. But I was stumped by the wedding. Thanks for the ideas! [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:46 AM Flag
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excellent! Happy to help out you and dh! [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:49 AM Flag
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i love that idea! good for you - kind of forces you to be creative too - esp. for weddings. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:53 AM Flag
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nice phot albums maybe [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 08:20 PM Flag
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Two itty bitty book lights, Mark Bittman's How to Cook Everything (as well as the two books mentioned above), a really great dictionary and a Bible (if Christian), or a great book about Jewish traditions ( I have one, but I'm not at home so I can't be specific) or Letitia Balrdidge's Contemporary Manners book, etc. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:42 AM Flag
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I'd add an almanac for the year of the wedding. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:44 AM Flag
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if you know where they are going on their honeymoon and you are giving the wedding gift early, you could give a travel guide [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:50 AM Flag
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a really beautiful atlas. A good one will run $100 plus. We got one as a wedding gift. I thought it was great. We've used it for years. Now our children use it. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 04:52 PM Flag
[ - ] Name poll - Aiden/Aidan or Hunter? Is Aiden/Aidan getting too popular? 4 Replies [ Reply | Watch | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:32 AM Flag
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You have posted this so many times I'm surprised you haven't delivered the kid by now. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:34 AM Flag
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Sorry - the multiple postings were by mistake, I didn't see it come up at the top so did it again. I'm new to this and just posted for the first time today. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:36 AM Flag
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[ Removed by moderator ] [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:35 AM Flag
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both are awful. to popular and trendy. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:36 AM Flag
[ - ] dh is staunchly pro-private / TT track for dd. i am staunchly public / off-track. how would you resolve this? 20 Replies [ Reply | Watch | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:28 AM Flag
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I have nothing against public schools, but if you and dh can securely afford private, I would agree with dh. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:29 AM Flag
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i strongly feel that 'street smarts' and parental guidance make a child more worldly than a private. my nieces go to an elite private, and now that they are tweens, i do not like how they focus so much on material things, only care about their clothes and looks, and if they --get this--have the same or better LV bag than their peers. ick. i see the kids in our bklyn nabe...they seem so much more grounded. (even if they are going to bklyn privates, there is something about not being in a totally exclusive environment that is making the kids in my neighborhood less icky than my nieces.) [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:32 AM Flag
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np: you do realize not all privates are like this [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:33 AM Flag
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You do realize that a lot of that is due to parental involvement or lack thereof, and you can control a lot of the way your child acts by not giving in to their every whim. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:34 AM Flag
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np I think you are stereotyping private schools. Not all are the same. Not all are full of materialistic wenches or "icky" girls. Try and fine something that will be the best education possible for your kids but not so "icky". (LOL!) Have you thought about catholic or jewish or other religious based schools? What about Montessori? [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:34 AM Flag
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only montessori appeals to me. we are not religious, therefore i don't think it would be a good match for us to send dd to a religious-based school. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:35 AM Flag
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np: try the progressives (downtown) not stuffy at all [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:38 AM Flag
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well fine. whatever. My point is that there are options and you should look into them! Not all private schools are what your stereotype implies [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:40 AM Flag
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sorry but my dds are in a Manhattan private and your desription is far from our reality with this school. There are many families with deep pockets but are far from entitled or label whores. We are not a rich family but happy to have our grounded kids at this private school [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:37 AM Flag
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Many publics are like this, in fact, IME more are. It is about picking the right school for your dd. Look at both public and private, you might be pleasantly surprised. I was. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:39 AM Flag
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obviously someone is going to have to compromise. What are the most important issues you both have? [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:29 AM Flag
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we have totally diff values. dh is worried if we don't start dd 'on-track' from the beginning, she won't get into an elite ivy 16.5 years from now (ridiculous, i think.) i think starting your kid on-track quashes creativity and 'street' learning. you may learn how to make the grade, but you don't really learn. dh, fyi, came from 'on track,' i came from public. we went to the same elite uni. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:34 AM Flag
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well you are both going to have to compromise here I think. I answered your "icky" post above about private schools. They aren't all the same. Hopefully you can find something that will be ok for both of you. Public schools and private schools both vary widely on all issues and depending on where you are, either can be good or bad. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:37 AM Flag
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I posted below and oh--this is somewhat different. I never cared about private for the "track", just because I loved schoool, DH hated it, and I value many things about private education that public, alas, doesn't have right now (arts, music, etc.) [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:37 AM Flag
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OP: i went to an excellent public (though enormous, and not in new york). it offered russian, mandarin, hebrew, excellent arts classes, etc. i had a great experience w public--and my parents were not involved at all, which i think is KEY. so i feel like any decent school will be great as long as dh and i are highly involved w what dd is doing. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:39 AM Flag
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I don't think you can be blcak/white on this. where do you live? how are your local schools? can you afford priate? what is your child like? [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:32 AM Flag
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we are zoned for PS 261 in boerum hill, which highly appeals to me. we can afford private, dh wants to send dd to one of the bklyn hts privates. dd is too young for me to even figure out what would be good for her. but, if we want to go the private route, we have to start the whole preschool thing soon. 1.5 y/o. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:37 AM Flag
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why not a down to earth private (if you are worried about the stuffy ones) [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:33 AM Flag
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np: that sounds like a good compromise. I am not in NY, so I know it's different. But we looked at private schools for DS--dh liked this very baby banker one and I liked the more crunchy one. We ended up getting waitlisted at both and went with our public school. Now that DS has been through kinder I feel like the issue got resolved for us in the perfect way--he is so happy there, we feel like we fit in very well with the school community. I can't imagine being happier at another school. OP I hope it works itself out well for you & your dh too. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:36 AM Flag
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This was me and DH (I was pro-private, him pro-public). How old is dc? For us, what ended up happening was looking at schools and suddenly DH, who is a great dad, realized that he wanted to do the best he could for ds (not that public is not good, and we would certainly send if that was what we could afford). DS goes to a nice Brooklyn private. I went to a TT in Manhattan and would not send a child to one now. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:36 AM Flag
[ - ] My dd is at a camp in the burb for the first time this year. Like all the other kids, she takes the bus to and from camp. She seems very happy but I'm having a hard time with the aspect of having no interaction with her counselors. I sent a note today (that's the camp's preferred way of communication from parents) asking the person incharge of swimming to give me a call b/c I have some concerns. What is a normal amount of time for him to get back to me? 23 Replies [ Reply | Watch | More
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New York City 07.07.08, 10:17 AM Flag
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What do you think is an acceptable amount of time? [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:19 AM Flag
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don't expect them to get back to you. Can you pick her up or drop her off one day if you really need to talk with someone? [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:20 AM Flag
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never [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:20 AM Flag
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ittta [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:29 AM Flag
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what is your concern? [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:22 AM Flag
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She doesn't swim, even though the vast majority of kids her age do. She told me that everyone except her and one other kid in her group passed the deep water test -- she is still working on putting her head under water. She said some of the other kids were teasing them, saying they would have to swim with the babies. And she said no one from her group is in her swim group b/c they all swim in a deeper/bigger pool than her. I just want to know who she is in swim lessons with, if she is improving, and I want to make sure the counselors are aware of the teasing issue. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:26 AM Flag
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how old is she? why hasn't she been swimming before this? [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:28 AM Flag
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Don't know. She's a very cautious kid. She was in a camp in the city for 2 years and had swim lessons there, plus private lessons. Some kids just take a long time to get comfortable with swimming I guess. but I would like to know the swim instructor's take on it! [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:49 AM Flag
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I'm not being mean, I promise. But you should not have contacted them about any of those issues. Teasing happens and it might be just what the doctor ordered for your child to put her head in the water. Who cares who is in her group? What would you do with that information? And either she improves or doesn't. You should probably sign her up for swim lessons (if it bothers her as much as it bothers you) over the winter to help her develop the skill. I know the mama bear wants to drown the mean teasing children and wants the counselor to spend most of their time helping her learn to swim - but that isn't going to happen. So, let your dd decide if she wants to learn or not, and how to handle the others teasing her. It's part of growing up. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:31 AM Flag
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OP here -- so you guys that send your NYC kids to Hillard, Mohowk, Pierce, Ramapo etc (all the burbs camp) never talk to your kids counselors? How old are your kids? [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:24 AM Flag
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np: I send to Riverdale and never talk to them. How would you? [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:25 AM Flag
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no, I take my children to the country (grandparents) in the summer, but when they are 11 they will go to sleepaway camp, where I don't expect to talk to the counselors either [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:25 AM Flag
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I get one phoen call from the counselors at the beiginning of the camp, saying dds settled in just fine (and had a phne call about a problem for one child last year). My kids are 6 and 9....sent the 6 yo last year at 5, and sent the 9 yo for the first time at 7. I ppuposely had the 6 yo in a swim program because she wanted to pass her deep water test this year. Less than half of her age group has done so. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:49 AM Flag
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btw...our camp has a very very strong anti-bullying statement. I think sending in a note and discussing the teasing is appropriate, but I also think you can use it to urge your child, gently into the water (Ie, "wouldn't it be fun to swim in Susie's group...would you like to practice more with Mommy and Daddy this weekend?) [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:53 AM Flag
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What camp is that? It sounds great! [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:54 AM Flag
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Ramaquois [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:56 AM Flag
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^^^and if you sent a note, our camp would contact you within 24- 36 hours, usually between 4 and 5 pm of the day you sent the note, possiby one day later. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:55 AM Flag
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All depends how critical your concern is deemed to be, I would expect to hear this week, hopefully by Wed. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:24 AM Flag
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You do understand the term helicopter parent right? Your daughter needs to improve her swimming skills. Let her - signed, mom who is probably overinvolved herself but sees a major problem in you [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:28 AM Flag
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ITA. OP might want to talk to her DD about teasing etc, but this battle is for her DD to fight [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:31 AM Flag
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How old is she? My dd is going into K and I picked a small camp that is insanely, over the top nurturing. I've been getting nonstop emails, calls, etc. It's actually kind of funny. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:33 AM Flag
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What camp is this? I need a camp like this for my kids. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:54 AM Flag
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Miss Sues in Plainview. I am getting 2-3 emails a day from them, plus calls from the busdriver (they send the driver over before camp starts so the kid can practice riding the bus, LOL), the head counselor, and the director. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:59 AM Flag
[ - ] DC are in K and preschool. How much should DH and I start giving to our colleges now if we want to give the kids a legacy advantage when they apply? 7 Replies [ Reply | Watch | More
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NY Schools 07.07.08, 10:17 AM Flag
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As much as you can. They want you to give what you're able and increase that as you become more able. They look more at a record of giving than the dollar amount --- that is, unless you're bill gates and planning on giving millions. Then all bets are off. I do a few hundred a year with bigger numbers at the mile markers -- 1000 at the 10 year, etc. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:26 AM Flag
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keep dreaming [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:30 AM Flag
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What does that mean? [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:32 AM Flag
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basically to give a monetary advantage (different from legacy) you need to donate big bucks, more than a few hundred or a thousand. Seriously. A wing with your name on it will help in that way. Otherwise, having a parental legacy is helpful in its own right [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:35 AM Flag
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Being a legacy, meaning you just went there 20 plus years ago, with no involvement isn't much better than nothing at all. The whole point to these schools is keeping legacies connected, which means donating $$ and time. So doing interviews, fundraising, donating, means more than nothing. And if you're so naive as to think they'll rate two legacies, one who sat on his ass and one who gave and got involved, the same, that's your problem. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:37 AM Flag
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I agree that keeping involved is important, but that doesn't mean donating small amounts of $. That won't make much of a difference (and I know someone closely who works in admissions). [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:38 AM Flag
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It means you start small and grow. When you're 22 and barely employed, they don't expect major. If you're 50 and successful, they do. And from the people I've spoken to, if you've given consistently, since 22, it means more than the 50+ year old who suddenly gives 50K expect that will buy his kid's way into college. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:48 AM Flag
[ - ] DC are in K and preschool. How much should DH and I start giving to our colleges now if we want to give the kids a legacy advantage when they apply? 2 Replies [ Reply | Watch | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:17 AM Flag
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a billion. or at least a new library or pool [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:34 AM Flag
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otherwise, it really doesn't matter [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:36 AM Flag
[ - ] DC need to take ERB and are going into 1st and 3rd grades (so applying for 2nd and 4th grades). They can take them anytime between now and fall without a difference, right? Should I do anything differently than the advise given to moms whose younger dc are taking it now? 3 Replies [ Reply | Watch | More
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NY Schools 07.07.08, 10:16 AM Flag
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This applies to both your dcs and younger. I would advise taking as soon as possible to get the scores before September. That way you aren't applying to schools unnecessarily. Certain schools just won't look at dcs below 95 or whatever, depending on the school. Considering that you're doing two kids, that seems relevant for you. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:21 AM Flag
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thanks. that is good advice. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:22 AM Flag
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Trying to follow it myself. Ds is scheduled to take ERB in two weeks but I KNOW he'll get sick or something! [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:24 AM Flag
[ - ] I Love My Baby's Nursery! Just wanted to let all the mothers know of a site that I found and purchased a crib from...www.goziahome.com 8 Replies [ Reply | Watch | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:13 AM Flag
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and now a word from our sponsors! [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:16 AM Flag
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Amm...actually I'm not a sponsor, I really did by a crib there. Didn't mean to throw anyone off... I can send pics if anyone wants to see or considering the same crib... [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.22.08, 10:23 AM Flag
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wow, gee, really? What an incredible tip thanks! I'm going to e-mail all the opinion-makers and influencers in my considerable address book with this prime tidbit of news. News of this overnight sensation will spread like a-a...virus! [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:33 AM Flag
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I love the spam theme nursery! I'm going to buy it for all my friends! [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:35 AM Flag
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Amm...actually I'm not a sponsor, I really did by a crib there. Didn't mean to throw anyone off... I can send pics if anyone wants to see or considering the same crib... just trying to share some advice, u don't need to attack me for it, just could of asked.. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.22.08, 10:25 AM Flag
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Wow, this is only your 17th post this hour! [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:36 AM Flag
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That crib has been recalled! And it's full of lead! [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:45 AM Flag
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Amm...actually I'm not a sponsor, I really did by a crib there. Didn't mean to throw anyone off... I can send pics if anyone wants to see or considering the same crib... really mature answers [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.22.08, 10:26 AM Flag
[ - ] when do you stop using the baby bathtub? 12 month old seems like he'd be fine in regular bathtub, but what are the do's and don'ts? 7 Replies [ Reply | Watch | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:11 AM Flag
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I used baby bath tub mabye twice! Just got in tub with baby after that. At 1 year, baby was sitting in tub alone. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:13 AM Flag
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i should qualify - unassisted - not alone. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:16 AM Flag
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There is a great tub from one step ahead or babies or us - it's a blow up one, fits in your tub and gives them freedom, but not too much. Is bigger than a baby tub, but not too big. 12 months is a good time to switch. GL! [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:14 AM Flag
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buy a tub ring. Perfect for a 12 month old. I still would never leave child alone in a bath tub ever, and tub ring may give you false sense of confidence, but it will allow you to use your whole tub and reach for the shampoo, towel, etc. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:15 AM Flag
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i used the kitchen sink from the time he could sit up (around 5-6mos) until he couldn't fit any more. Perfect size and much easier on my back [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:32 AM Flag
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My dd outgrew baby tub after 4-5 mos. Got one of those bath sponge things for her to lay on in the big tub. Now she's 7 mos & sitting in there unassisted (but with one of my hands always on her just in case). She loves to splash in the water & hold the bath toys. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:37 AM Flag
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My 8mo crawls around on the bottom of the bath on a regular bath mat - no seat required. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:41 AM Flag
[ - ] modern crib 1 Reply [ Reply | Watch | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:11 AM Flag
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Look at the TATI Cribs on this site....I purchased the Domino for Samantha...I LOVE It...very unique stuff here....goziahome.com [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:16 AM Flag
[ - ] please help with the wording of pre-printed message inside a baby's christening thank you note ( a personalized handwritten message will be added to each card as well) TIA. 4 Replies [ Reply | Watch | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:04 AM Flag
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did this person attend the christening? if so, "thank you so much for being part of this very special day for us. Thank you to for __________." Something like that. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:08 AM Flag
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don't preprint anything. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:09 AM Flag
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ita, so awful [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:29 AM Flag
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It's really cheesy and redundant. Just write that same message over and over to everyone. [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:33 AM Flag
[ - ] Need rain cover for Maclaren volo stroller - Do other rain covers fit Maclaren? Cant find it on target - thought for sure i would 2 Replies [ Reply | Watch | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:04 AM Flag
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no, go to maclaren website [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:05 AM Flag
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buy buy baby has them [ Reply | More
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General Topics 07.07.08, 10:07 AM Flag
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