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March 2013 - time to wrap them all up in tinsel

997 replies

StormyBrid · 04/12/2013 11:21

Old thread here.

worse we're like Plonky on the timings - we keep mealtimes and milktimes separate. I spotted something in Evil Baby Whisperer that suggested around this age milk should be at the time you'd give a snack. Thinking about it, that's pretty much what we do - milk at the crack of dawn, 11am, 3pm and bedtime, food at 9am, 1pm and 5pm. It seems to work, and Fartypants is definitely in the process of reducing milk herself. Those middle two feeds, she's having about four ounces now.

How is the worselet on mush? Does she show any preferences? If we were sticking with baby led weaning we'd be getting absolutely nowhere. Savoury mushes, she'll try a mouthful then get distracted by the cat. Fruit mushes, she practically inhales. For a reduced stress option, can I suggest getting yourself to Asda? They've a hell of a range of cheap fruity mushes, and then at least you're not having to throw away purees you've spent hours lovingly creating.

Incidentally, six month old Molly may love her porridge, but all that means is that Molly's a total weirdo - porridge is vile. It's weetabix all the way round here, with mashed banana in.

eco hang in there, it does get better. How long until 37 weeks for you?

I am thanking my heathen gods we don't have crawling yet. Nappy changes with rolling are bad enough. Especially when it's a particularly horrific one.

OP posts:
Are your children’s vaccines up to date?
Plonkysaurus · 30/12/2013 07:22

Oh Worse I meant to ask - does this mean the pantry's in tact?

Shatteredmamma1 · 30/12/2013 09:18

stormy we are also having spoon success
this week. Seems to be one week on one
week off. Btw he has eaten loads this week
plus his three bottles, when is he ever going
to give up the night feed??! Hmm. I don't
think I can get more good in him. Any tips
ladies??

Bad mummy points here- baby not self
settling at night whilst away, up twice in the
night- felt judged by the whole lot of them
Sad.

No chance of trying for us yet- need the
sleep first! Have a friend who is 4m
pregnant already so will have just 15m
gap- I couldn't hack that. I also think at
least 2 if not 3 year age gap for us. All
being well.

Horrible weather here again today. Anyone
Got any ideas what I can do with DS?

Shatteredmamma1 · 30/12/2013 09:19

Food not good!

Plonkysaurus · 30/12/2013 11:20

Shattered our plans today stretch to waiting for an Ocado delivery and possibly going for a coffee. We need to buy a radiator key (it doesn't get more exciting than that) so may as well do something enjoyable.

ecofreckle · 30/12/2013 14:44

Well,I try to love all weathers, but today I am challenged. Wind + Rain together I always find hard. But generally, when I get out there I like it because you really feel like you have been outside (that might not make sense to most people because I am a bit strange). Plonky your radiator/coffee plan sounds like a very ambitious one for the first Monday after Christmas. We haven't got very far today. We met briefly with the mums and babies but ecobaby was acting like a very delicate flower with everything due to overtiredness so I brought her home again fed her mash, sticks of cheese, carrots and sweetcorn all scavenged from the leftovers fridge and she appears now to be asleep.
Plonky a trip to CA? Yeah yeah yeah! I can't say yes enough. I have the rough guide if you want me to pop it in post. Where will you be staying/how will you travel? DH and I did a 4 week road trip there a few years ago and it was epic and fun. I loved: driving Highway between LA and San Fran (Big Sur and Monteray and Santa Cruz on the way), eating/taking trams/walking around San Fran, Berkley (mostly for the alternative vibe/organic food cafes/supermarkets/music scene), Yosemite, Joshua Tree. my favourite bits Will it be your honeymoon? I am excited for you! Autumn is a brill time to go imo.

Plonk I had a terrible time with my mooncup last night. I finally plucked up courage and (don't read on if you are eaing your supper) yikes it hurt. I squished it up as you are supposed to and then tried to pop it in but it unfurled when it was JUST inside leaving the bell shaped bit outside. I nearly phoned 999. It was an unpleasant experience. I know rainbow got on well with it after a while so I will try again when my bits feels better How have you got on?

And plonky, Ocado eh? You're well posh innit.

And finally plonk can you just explain what this means: "DP finds it too easy to pants me in them" when referring to your new FF PJs?!
Shattered, I think (and I am a bit prone to waftyness) that if your DS is eating well during day then he probably needs that night bottle. For now. Ecobaby has been having two feeds a night again for a few weeks now. Despite eating liek a horse. Sigh. But if he's up, supped and back no problem then maybe try and hold out for a few more days. It may pass as his body develops and 'learns' to take more good from the proper food he is eating? I am no expert.
Betty despite the size 10 rakiness I too have the curvy belly. Which, if coupled with some boob curves and some hips curves would look comely but on a rake isn't so nice. It's just a bit flappy! Maybe I should try the PJs on. They'll probably fit. I wouldn't dare swap because they look like something an older lady might wear and wouldn't really be very good for self esteem if you know what I mean! Not something to wear in front of another person. Kind offer though Thanks
Blimey you lot you are pretty much all up for second babies?! Hats off to you. We will probably stick with our one although DH would happily oblige with another tomorrow I suspect shame he can't carry it and pop it out There are 7 years between sister and I, 5 between sister's girls. I like that sort of age gap because it is what i am familiar with. I fear my ovaries might be a bit prune like if I leave it that long.....although never say never.
I get bad mummy points for trying to take ecobaby out in all weathers, including yesterday to Wells-next-the-Sea where we had a second lunch to warm up. That second lunch was chips and she might have indulged in a few for indulged read devoured like a wild animal
Gerry I have biscuits for lunch often. And for lunch pudding. That's the way mummy life rolls sometimes isn't it. I'm sure DD will have been delighted. Did you find a fence putter upperer? And, oversized white hollister jumpers are probably only going to look nice on girls like my 14 year old niece. What skincare was it? I love Neal's Yard rose multipurpose stuff because it smells divine.

Worse ILs waved goodbye now? Did you all have a lovely time together? Did DD get any more of those lovely knitted 'not a dress not a tank top' things that look pretty and very very practical? I didn't know they were a 'thing' until we got given one too by one of DH's friend's Mums. It is the colour of DDs name and very pretty but she needs to fatten up a bit. 9-12 months stuff on us is a bit baggy still, despite her being 90something centile. Maybe we just got used to the snug fit.

Stormy your food breakthrough sounds positive. How polite of DD to go for one of your creations. Sometimes the best grins are kept aside here for things I have NOT made. Gggrrr....
Ok, I can hear the sinister sound of a baby that has woken after 30 minutes of sleep through the monitor so I'd better go and investigate. Happy days to you all X (I'm feeling on days like today a kiss or two will brighten the spirits)

BettyOff · 30/12/2013 17:07

Stormy I got all kinds of bad mummy points; junk food lunches, falling on her face, bath too hot/cold, nearly went down the stairs. It was all going on!

As for having another one, we'll have to see. I have a very strong feeling that my family is complete but I think that comes from being a very content only child so not being able to imagine anything else. DH would like one more but if we do have another I think it'll be a 4yr age gap. I don't know how people cope with two close together!

Plonk I'm so jealous of the idea of a California trip, it's top of my travel wish list but I think it'll be a while before we can get the leave and have the money at the same time!

Eco my love of the weather is very mood dependent. Some days I hate the rain and some days I love getting happed up and having a welly-clad stomp around and then coming in to a hot cup of tea. DD here is out in all weathers too, the pooch insists on it!

I'm very jealous of those that are having PJ days and a nice lazy time between Christmas and New Year, we've travelled the 4.5hrs up to the PILs today only to have them greet DD and DH, offer DH a cuppa and no word to me. I swear I am only a uterus to them. How lovely. Roll on Wednesday!

XmasPudtat · 30/12/2013 17:54

Betty, I know it's Christmas and all but you and especially your dh have to call them on this. It's not on. A firm, I'd love one thanks, milk and two (or whatever of course Wink I'll graciously allow you to order tea to your taste) and a word to dh that he needs to stick up for you or you won't be staying. He needs to grow a pair on this issue and you need robot be afraid to be the scary dil they need to be nice to - what's the worst that can happen? They might not like you ? Sounds like that ships sailed... Hmm

XmasPudtat · 30/12/2013 17:55

Robot ? To not

worsestershiresauce · 30/12/2013 19:01

Yay, the guests have gone Grin. Actually that's mean, they were lovely... but personal space and all. It's nice to have that back. Yes to the knitted tresents Eco but this time no tankini dresses. We have actual tank tops, jumpers and cardigans. A nice haul. The worselet is well spoilt, and that's before we get the the carrier bags full of other gifts. Precious first grand child.... you'd never guess Wink

Plonky of course the pantry survived. It's bomb proof. I pick my hide outs carefully Grin

Stormy ShockGrin. You'll be telling us next you rub brandy on her gums to help with teething. The number of older ladies who have suggested that one to me....

Bad mummy points here, well I reckon putting her down for nursery pretty much tops the list. I don't feel good about it, but I do know she needs some socialisation time away from me as she has just started down the clingy shy road.

Betty your ILs are ar5es. You can tell them I said that. Better still, tell them not only do they have no manners they have no breeding and no class. I can tell they are the kind of people who would be really pi55ed off by that. Honestly, there is rude and then there is Betty's ILs Hmm

Eco it is possible ok certain I may be a bit odd as well, as I have to get out too or I go slightly potty, and I love rain. I am probably happiest when out running in a torrential downpour. People take it upon themselves to suggest to me running on a sunny day might be nicer, but actually no, it's not. It is just hot.

Ah I hear the man returning downstairs after bathing the tiddler. I'd better look busy Grin

Gerrythetootallgiraffeswife · 30/12/2013 20:08

No fence putter upper found, they are all closed for Christmas. I can't help but think that after the worst long spell of bad weather seen down here for many years, it would make good business sense for them to at least man the phones and book in quotation appointments despite it being Christmas...

The skincare was Liz Earle. It's lovely. And I've only been given the tiniest sample bottles. Makes me feel well posh innit...

Oh I am jealous of you lot and your willingness to get out and about in all weathers. I don't know what happened to me, I am the least lazy person in the world when it comes to work, but I am shite at motivating myself to get off my backside and getting outside. Need to fix that soon, along with my telly addict tendencies. Don't want the tiny one to take after me!

ecofreckle · 30/12/2013 20:21

gerry, I don't know you at all well but I would suggest you are a brilliant role model for your dd in a squillion ways!
And, I was going to guess liz earle hence my thinking of my nice smelling rose stuff. It smells so wholesome and delicious doesn't it? Enjoy.

BettyOff · 30/12/2013 20:26

Ooh Gerry you've made me feel posh. I use Liz Earle, it's fab. I got the shampoo and conditioner for Christmas and it feels like the best ridiculous indulgence. I love it!

Wors you're wrong I'm afraid I thought that would never happen as they pride themselves on being working class, which is actually very far from the truth. Hmm and Pud that's exactly what I've said to DH this time. We won't be returning anytime soon and thankfully we're back down the road on the 1st where my very lovely parents will be waiting for us.

Plonkysaurus · 30/12/2013 21:14

Ugh we're 'watching' Bond. I bloody hate Bond. I've been keeping myself busy making a slideshow of 2013. Easier said than done on these daft tablet wotzits.

Betty I applaud your staying so calm with such rude ILs. I went out with a lad (the circumcised one, actually) whose mum always gave him double the food she offered to me. I never liked her! Regardless of their (chosen) class, they're downright rude. Are you too posh for their son? If so I suggest cracking open a bottle of bubbly just for you while they drink their precious cups of tea.

Betty DP also has to be forced out of the house, but he's very good at going out to work. Great work ethic but finds family time a real hassle, which makes me quite sad. I think I'm more like Betty in that respect, and I enjoy it once I'm out.

Eco mooncup gets a big fat tick from me. Yowch though, I hope you're, erm, recovered down there. I find it nice not having a handbag littered with tampons, and I'm getting the hang of it going in and out. It's nice to go to bed not feeling like I'm wearing a nappy!
I'd love to brag and say we're going on a massive trip stateside, but in reality we'd only be going as far as Skegness were it not for my very generous parents. They spend a significant amount of time in the US every winter, but came home early this year for business (theirs thrives on bad weather, could show those fence putter upperers a thing or two). So they've banked some time and offered it to us. We'll spend a few days with them in San Francisco, and then up to a week doing our own thing. I'm terrified of 14 hours flying with an 18 month old! So well probably do it in two legs.

Shattered, I forgot to answer your question. I have indeed found the dress Grin. It's not a big pouffy affair, but pretty enough I hope!

ecofreckle · 30/12/2013 21:37

plonk that is super gorgeous! You will cute as a button in that.

XmasPudtat · 30/12/2013 22:18

Awwww that's gorgeous Plonk ! Smile

Anypants · 31/12/2013 10:20

Oooh Plonky - very tasty. I love a wedding dress. Used to have daydreams about working in a wedding dress shop but don't imagine it pays well.
Gerry I also got given som Liz Earle hot cloth shenanigans for Christmas and I haven't the first clue about using it. I'm more of a scrub-it-off-with-shower-gel-then-moisturise kind of girl. Maybe my face will thank me if I treat it nicely....

I'd like to say, before this year is out, a big thanks to all you lovely lot for all the support and morale boosting i've needed in 2013. It's been a surreal year and i'm glad I found you when I did or I may not have made it this far intact. Big un-MN hugs to y'all and a very Happy New Year! Here's to first birthdays, holidays and returning to the workplace (ugh) Wine Wine Wine

StormyBrid · 31/12/2013 11:47

Lovely dress, Plonk, and you won't look like a meringue in it, which is always a plus.

For the record, I have no idea who Liz Earle is or why you're all smearing yourself in her secretions...

As for the drunken baby, I'm blaming my grandma. A few years ago she passed on the responsibility for the Christmas trifle to my brother. The first time he made it, she gave him a bollocking for not putting enough sherry in. Apparently you're supposed to use the whole bottle. This may be why I've never liked trifle.

OP posts:
LaLaLeni · 31/12/2013 12:36

Well howdy strangers - yet again I've not had the energy to do much other than exist! I think I have a touch of the old PND...

Anyway, hope all those first Christmases with the smalls went well and I can hardly believe 2014 is about to hit!

I've loved seeing everyone's photos on fb (I find it easier to read things there) and videos of exploits Grin

I have a very chatty little man lately, unfortunately I still haven't got him to want less than 2 night feeds though. I'm currently wading around a house full of toys, I'm sure an ankle twist is on the cards...

Shatteredmamma1 · 31/12/2013 14:18

plonky that dress is just gorgeous.
How lovely. Reminds me of my wedding-
I had a great day and really hope you guys
do too Grin. How lovely that mini plonk can
celebrate with you Smile

betty Shock to your in laws. Or out laws
rather. How fricking rude. They wouldn't
even have a lovely grandchild without you.
Angry for you. And yes don't put up with
it a second longer.

We managed a walk and a zoo trip in the
wind/rain yesterday. Was good. I also have
to get out at least twice a day otherwise I
go crazy. A little anyway.

On my phone again so can't scroll back.
Hope everyone has a great New Years
Eve. Thanks for letting me join the group!
Lots of Wine for us all, and looking
forward to the morning gossip and Brew
Grin ! Xx

Shatteredmamma1 · 31/12/2013 14:19

Oh and stormy Grin to the drunken baby!

Plonkysaurus · 31/12/2013 18:07

Interesting day here... Went out for a bit of shopping and a spot of lunch. All was well, a nice old man even said how lovely DS was as we sat sharing a banana while dp looked at video games. Went to wagamamas, ate all our lunch in perfect harmony, even as DS got tired. Dp fetched a cup of hot water to sterilise a dummy and promptly knocked it flying. All over ds's legs. I have never moved so fast! He's fine, thank god, just a red mark on his ankle.

So now I'm parboiling sprouts and roasting lamb ready to have a great big glass of wine and a yummy dinner to see in the new year. We're all feeling a bit philosophical in this house today!

Happy new year everyone, make it a good un - you all deserve it.

ecofreckle · 31/12/2013 19:04

any, Betty and I should set up a wedding frock shop then! Decided! We all share a little passion for weddings it seems Smile
plonky that sounds like an unwelcome scare. Your menu tonight sounds lush and I hope that it heals some worries. New year is a time when I too get a little pensive.
leni we too are on two night feeds a night most nights. For now I am trying to roll with it. Also, like you, the screaming cannot be calmed by anything other than milk. And that makes me a bit sad too sometimes. A cuddle from mummy is supposed to make EVERYTHING better.
We have today planned a romantic mini break to Bedford this weekend coming to house hunt and check out some areas. holiday Inn express and travel cot here we come. Very romantic
Am in bath prior to ecobaby tonight as instead of pyjamas I am putting on a spangly jumper and getting down to kitchen to spend some quality time with dh, Jamie and Hugh. Jamie for main and Hugh for pudding. yummy. If ecobaby wakes for milk at ten tonight like last night she will be getting pure fizzBlush
I will echo other's thanks for your support so far this year. Each of you are special for different reasons and I so enjoy hearing your news. let's hope there's plenty more exciting news in 2014.
Ps. we should have an unethical guess on this thread at who might be the first to announce their next baby is on the way! Or another crystal ball gazing guess.
happy new year all!

yummychocolate · 31/12/2013 19:09

Beautiful dress plonky. Hope ds is ok. Its so scary when something horrible happens to them. I get more bad mummy points when ds tipped thankfully cold coffee on him. My hysterical screaming gave him a fright.

So much to catch up on. I dread having another baby but then i see ds interacting with other children and i go mushy. He loves children and has become very sociable. I think he will great with a sibling.

Bad mummy points for exposing him to the sale crowds. We are both now recovered thankfully.

leni we missed you. Hope you are getting the right support for your pnd. There are times when I question my mental health but then the next day I will be ok. We have gone back to night feeds and playing at 4/5am too. Maybe its a growth spurt or a habit.

rainbow i hope you are still lurking on here. Hope dd is doing well.

Im reminiscing today. Looking at my life since ds was born its amazing how it evolves. I can't believe im already in my pj's and wondering how on earth am i going to be awake at midnight. DH is having a nap now and earlier we discussing childrens programmes. He seems to think upsydaisy (in the night garden) is part of teletubbies. I don't maybe a cousin or something.

Its my birthday tomorrow and i feel so old BUT feel so luck to celebrate new year/birthday with my little family.

Here's to first birthdays, wonder weeks, more night feeds and going back to work. Eeek.

XmasPudtat · 31/12/2013 20:15

Well, it's been emotional. To all of you, and Rainbow, Wing, Eig if you're still out there... Hope you've enjoyed it as much as I have and I pledge handholding aplenty in 2014 if I can have the odd one back please Wink.
WineCheers!

BettyOff · 31/12/2013 20:26

Shit ladies, I'm getting all mushy the stashed wine I've found is helping but you've been such a great support. Id love to meet some of you in 2014!

Eco I'm in for the wedding business, DH often says that wedding and honeymoon planning was my greatest skill!

Plonk the dress is fab, are you going for the ribbon as a belt as in the last pic or not? It's so classy, gorgeous.

Leni it's good to have you back. Some of the time it's just bloody impossible to muster enthusiasm isn't it? I'm pretty sure I had a fairly hefty dose of PND for the first 8m but there seems to be light at the end of the tunnel. Fuck me this parenting is tough though. On the plus side Leni, your DS is the cutest thing so despite it being hellish sometimes you're obviously doing a hell of a job.

I'm going to sit in my chair and get pissed for the New Year to forget the fact I would rather be somewhere else and instead be thankful.

Happy Hogmanay everyone xx I think if I can't share kisses tonight when can I?