SAH Mommy Group Journal

[JenM]

Here's our journal, ladies :)

I know we've done this before.. but lets start by answering some questions and introducing ourselves:


1) What is your name and family stats? (babies names, ages, etc...)
2) How long have you been a SAHM?
3) What did you do before this wonderful new job?
4) What are your priorities for each day? Where do you feel you need the most help with motivation in getting things done each day?
5) What do you hope to get out of this journal?

[JenM]

1) What is your name and family stats? (babies names, ages, etc...)
My name is Jen, 32... DH is Kristofer, 33... Babies are Zoe, 20 months and Ellie, 8 1/2 weeks
2) How long have you been a SAHM?
I've been truly JUST a SAHM since November when I decided I was just too tired to work anymore.
3) What did you do before this wonderful new job?
I was (am, I suppose, heh) an early intervention speech language pathologist.
4) What are your priorities for each day? Where do you feel you need the most help with motivation in getting things done each day?
Ahah! This is the kicker. As I said in my original post... my priorites are:
1) Zoe and Ellie
2) Me
3) Kris
4) Household stuff...

Seeing as how number 4 is LAST on the list... I admit... that is the last thing to get done :blush: I must admit... it is driving me CRAZY not to be able to keep the house in order like I used to. My greatest desire is to hire a housekeeper to come clean once a week :lol: ... but for right now it is NOT in our budget. Kris is definitely NOT for finding the money to pay for that expense... he thinks if I allocate my time better than I can get all the house stuff done each week without a problem. HA! Well... we shall see... since I haven't REALLY tried yet :blush:
5) What do you hope to get out of this journal?
SO... my goal for this journal is to outline what I want to do each day... set goals... and hopefully stick to them since I have you ladies to come be accountable to :)

[SarahK]

1) What is your name and family stats? (babies names, ages, etc...)
I'm Sarah and am married to Brian. Katie (Kathleen Grace) is our baby and she is three months old.

2) How long have you been a SAHM?
Due to a rough pregnancy and a deteriorating job situation, I quit working midway through my pregnancy (so, in July of 2003.)

3) What did you do before this wonderful new job?
I worked as an assistant director of admission at a college in New England.

4) What are your priorities for each day? Where do you feel you need the most help with motivation in getting things done each day?
I don't want to make a list (because I tend to feel like a failure if I don't achieve everything on a list) but I do need to make myself more of a priority. Katie is a huge priority in my life and I tend to invest all of my time into making her happy...and each day it feels like I'm losing a bit more of myself. I need to make time to do the things that I love and that make me feel like myself.

5) What do you hope to get out of this journal?
Friendship and support from other women who are staying home with their babies.

[~Andrea~]

1) What is your name and family stats? (babies names, ages, etc...) I'm Andrea (29) DH is John (33) and Gabrielle Carmella is our DD (14 months, 1-5-03)

2) How long have you been a SAHM? since Gabrielle was born (4 weeks early)

3) What did you do before this wonderful new job? I taught preschool for 4 years and subbed in elementary school before that

4) What are your priorities for each day? My only priority is Gabrielle. Everything else comes in second. Where do you feel you need the most help with motivation in getting things done each day? Definately cleaning the house :blush: I am a horrible house keeper. I just keep puttin it off b/c I have too much time.

5) What do you hope to get out of this journal? Not really sure. Maybe some ideas of how to balance my priorities.

[AahRee]

1) What is your name and family stats? (babies names, ages, etc...)
I'm Anne, and I'm married to Phil. Our DD is Katie (Katie Gabrielle) and she'll be two on May 8th.
2) How long have you been a SAHM?
I became a SAHM in April 2002, but I was a WAHM from Sept. 2002 through Feb. 2003. I've been a full-time SAHM for about a year now.
3) What did you do before this wonderful new job?
Before I had Katie, I was a paralegal for a large corporate law firm in Seattle. I was working on a Philip Morris lawsuit (as defendant's counsel) so I guess it's karma that I now have lung problems (not related to smoking - I've never been a smoker) and couldn't work, even if I wanted to. :lol:
4) What are your priorities for each day? Where do you feel you need the most help with motivation in getting things done each day?
Well, right now, I'm getting treated for my lung disease and coping with the disease itself and the effects of the treatments, which are making me sick. Also, we're getting ready to move out of our house in less than two weeks, and move in with the ILs for a few months as we wait for our new house to be finished. Plus, I'm trying to help my DH apply for his Master's program, which starts next month. So, I'm really in survival mode right now.
5) What do you hope to get out of this journal?
Eventually, I'd like to get some accountability for every day type things, like working on cleaning one area of the house per day, and being more organized about the time I spend with my DD. However, right now, I could just use some moral support to make it through the next few months. I'm thinking things will be a little more calm by the end of June, or early July, but until then, life is going to be crazy!

[~Andrea~]

:sadhug:Anne I'm sorry to hear about your lung problems.

[AahRee]

Thanks Andrea. I'm going to survive, but it's not all that much fun right now. :( And poor DH has pretty much all of the household responsibilities, so I can focus on getting better. Sooo... getting better is my only *real* goal at this point. A good one, though, right? :)

[SarahK]

A very good one. :nod:

[JenM]

Anne, I'm sorry to read about your lung problem as well :bighug: When was it diagnosed and how long do they predict recovery will be? It sounds like you have SO much going on right now. I can totally understand just being in survival mode. I hope you get the support you need here. I also hope your stay at your IL's won't be too stressful. I know that would drive me insane! I don't even like going on vacations all that much.. I am a major home body.

Andrea, Where are you in New Jersey?



Soo.... maybe we should set some goals to accomplish for ourselves. Set any goal you want. I think I'll do daily goals... that should keep me on track. And maybe I'll have bigger weekly goals too... Maybe. My goal for tomorrow is to: Get the house clean! I'll be happy if I can just run the vacuum cleaner around the downstairs tomorrow... and MAYBE mop the kitchen floor. That's the only goal I'll set for housework stuff. The rest I'll just feel out as I go along.

I did pretty good today... I discovered a wonderful device... I'd forgotten all about it! It's called a SWING :lol: I put Ellie in the swing for the first time this morning and she was OUT like a light for 2 hours!!! I got SO much done! I picked up a bit downstairs... putting toys away and other things where they needed to go... then put Zoe on a video and jogged on the treadmill. I felt so productive :) I even got out to the grocery store this afternoon. That was about it for me. Zoe and I did a few art projects this morning... I played with her for about 20 minutes on the computer letting her learn her mouse skills with her Reader Rabbit software.. I spent quite a bit of time with Ellie... playing peek a boo.. giving her tummy time... and I made dinner. Overall, I feel good about the day... but now I'm exhausted!

[~Andrea~]

Andrea, Where are you in New Jersey?


South Jersey, not too far from Philadelphia. And you?

[JenM]

I'm in East Brunswick.. Middlesex county. I guess we're about an hour away from each other.

[AahRee]

Anne, I'm sorry to read about your lung problem as well :bighug: When was it diagnosed and how long do they predict recovery will be? It sounds like you have SO much going on right now. I can totally understand just being in survival mode. I hope you get the support you need here. I also hope your stay at your IL's won't be too stressful. I know that would drive me insane! I don't even like going on vacations all that much.. I am a major home body.


Thanks Jen. :bighug: I was diagnosed after a lung biopsy last summer. I was *supposed* to be recovered back in September, when they started me on Prednisone, but things didn't exactly go according to plan. :rolleyes: At this point, they don't know why my lungs are continuing to get worse, so they have no idea how to fix it, or how long it will take. They're basically just guessing about everything, now. So, it could be as soon as this weekend (when we'll know whether my current treatment worked), or as long as years from now, until I'm healed. And honestly, I might never be... but we're not going to think about that. :disbelief
Fortunately, my ILs are wonderful, and we get along great, so it shouldn't be TOO bad, but it will be interesting to be a SAHM in someone else's house, especially since my MIL is retired. Fortunately, we (DD and I) are going to visit my parents for two weeks during that time, and the ILs will be on vacations during part of the time as well. So it won't be as bad as it could be. We actually lived with them for 5 months before we bought this house (and we conceived our daughter there) so it's not TOO bad a place! :lol:

My goals for tomorrow (Wednesday):
1. Survive my third treatment.
2. Take the blood test results in stride, whatever they are.
3. Call the options lady for our new house and arrange to drop off the check.
4. Drop off library books and pick up the ones I have on hold.

I think that is plenty for one day!

[JenM]

I agree! Plenty for one day! Good luck today :bighug: Please check back in and let us know how everything went.

I am EXHAUSTED this morning :( I didn't get to bed until 11pm (bad me) and was up with Ellie at 1:30... 3:30... 5... and then Zoe was up at 6... and that was a wrap. Sigh. I've worked out Sat., Sun., Mon., and Tues... I think today I'll take a break :) I find it very hard to exercise when I'm tired. I'm hoping I get a nap this afternoon while the girls are down and maybe I'll have energy to get my vacuuming goal accomplished later in the day.

[magoo]

I'd like to join too, if that's okay. :supergrin:


1) What is your name and family stats? (babies names, ages, etc...)
I'm Sarah. DH is Eric. DD is Anna born 1-26-03. She is currently 13.5 months old.

2) How long have you been a SAHM?
Since Anna was born, although the first year was techincally mat. leave. In January, I started caring for a little boy down the street two days a week. His name is Daniel and he's now almost 7 months old.

3) What did you do before this wonderful new job?
I worked for the YMCA. I mainly did jobs in the Preschool Dept. (Preschool teacher, program instructor, daycamp coordinator) but I also did some stuff with school aged children.

4) What are your priorities for each day? Where do you feel you need the most help with motivation in getting things done each day?
Anna is top priority. I really need some motivation to get household stuff done. I find I'm more motivated in the evenings when DH is home, but at the same time I'm worn out by then. To be quite honest, I got into the habit of hopping on the computer when Anna was taking 30 min. naps. Now that she's often napping longer, I've got to get out of this habit and get something done.

5) What do you hope to get out of this journal?
I guess I like the accountability of it. I also would like to gain friendship and support from other women who have decided to stay home. It's not always easy (like yesterday, for instance) but I know that it's the best thing for us.

Sarah

[magoo]

Anne ~ Good luck getting your list done!
Jen ~ What a rough night!! I think that a nap should be your #1 goal.

Okay, I'm going to jump right in with some goals. I'll make 'em easy ones.

1. Take Anna to playgym
2. Put away the laundry in the hallway
3. Pack away old light in Anna's room
4. Fold diapers and put away

Okay, that's the list for today. Ooo... I just got a wiff of Anna... maybe change her poopy diaper should be #1 :lol:

[SarahK]

Yay, Sarah!!!! :bighug:

Okay, my goals for today...
~go to library to exchange books
~go to post office
~go to Target
~maybe go to Costco (depends on how Baby Katie is doing at that point)
~give Katie a bath
~do one load of laundry and put all clothes away--including the ones that are folded in the basket right now
~finishing making guest bed

(Keep in mind my MIL is coming to visit for the first time on Saturday night...)

[Kate]

Can I join.....

1) What is your name and family stats? (babies names, ages, etc...) I am Kate (24), DH is Sean (31), Cameron is two and Alasdair should arrive sometime by the end of April or early May.
2) How long have you been a SAHM? I have been a SAHM since August.
3) What did you do before this wonderful new job? Before I had Cameron I was a technical recruiter for an enterprise data storage company. I was laid off while pregnant. I went to work as a customer service rep for an emergency response company, but I hated the job and the hours.
4) What are your priorities for each day? Where do you feel you need the most help with motivation in getting things done each day? I need help with my follow through. I will have grand plans to get some big project done, but run out of steam half way through. I need to be better at keeping the house clean too.
5) What do you hope to get out of this journal? Accountablility. I want to be able to say that I started and finished X project. And to make more wonderful friends.

[Eva]

I would like to join in too. :)

1) What is your name and family stats? (babies names, ages, etc...) I am Eva (34), Am married to David (38) for 2.5 years and we have a doughter Emma who is 7 months old.
2) How long have you been a SAHM? Since Emma was born in July. Technically I am on Mat leave until July(one year leave in Canada) but the hospital where I work is closing so I am getting laid off. Even beofre this was happening, I decided only to work casual soI could primarily be a SAHM.
3) What did you do before this wonderful new job? Registered Nurse on a general surgical unit. Post op care.
4) What are your priorities for each day? Where do you feel you need the most help with motivation in getting things done each day? I need to get more things done arond the house and finish projects I have storted. I am a major procrastinator. I aalso need to exercise more.
5) What do you hope to get out of this journal? To get more organized and finish what I start. Also to meet fellow SAHMs

[Eva]

Goals for today:

Pay a couple of bills
do a load or 2 of laundry
take a walk with Emma
give Emma a bath
work on my quilt.

[JenM]

Welcome to EVERYONE! :bighug: Man! Do we have some dirty houses! :lol: Looks like everyone has a housekeeping goal :lol:

Sarah.. your list is making me exhausted!!! I miss the days of only having ONE to drag around on errands with me like that. It's definitely not as easy as it used to be... but I guess I'll adjust to it, just like I did with DD#1

[~Deborah~]

1) What is your name and family stats? (babies names, ages, etc...) I have two wonderful sons named Joshua (January 15, 2002) and Kyle (October 25, 2003). I have been married to Jay since June 27, 1998

2) How long have you been a SAHM? I have been a SAHM since November 10,2001 when my company went under before I was to start my maternity leave.
3) What did you do before this wonderful new job? I was a flight attendant for a Canadian Charter Airline. When I found out I was pregnant I stopped flying and switched to working in the payroll department.
4) What are your priorities for each day? Where do you feel you need the most help with motivation in getting things done each day? My priorities are making sure my boys are happy even if that means the house is a disaster. Jay doesn't care which I love but it drives me crazy that I can get the house tidy and then it looks like I did NOTHING by the time he gets home from work.
5) What do you hope to get out of this journal? Just knowing that I am not alone in the lack of clean house :lol:.

[harmonielyn]

1) What is your name and family stats? (babies names, ages, etc...)
My name is Harmonie and im 20 years old. DH is Kevin, hes 28 years old. We have 1 daughter named Madison, she is 4 1/2 months old.

2) How long have you been a SAHM?
Ive been a SAHM for 4 1/2 months. :lol: before that I was a SAHW.

3) What did you do before this wonderful new job?
The only jobs I've ever had were: 1 when I was 14 working at a snowball stand and 2. when I was 16 working in medical records at a hospital.

4) What are your priorities for each day? Where do you feel you need the most help with motivation in getting things done each day?
I have different priorities everyday, usually laundry and cleaning house with random other things. I definitely need motivation to get moving everday.

5) What do you hope to get out of this journal?
I hope to find people I have things in common with and become friends.


Today's goals:
finish laundry
fold and pick up ALL loads of laundry that are done
rearrange bedroom furniture
clean out Madison's closet to send things to goodwill

[AahRee]

Well, I really only managed to get one thing done, but I'm okay with that. I survived my third treatment. They didn't end up doing the blood test today, which was fine. They'll do it on Friday, and we'll know for sure what's going on then. I didn't talk to the flooring lady, but I am going by tomorrow to drop of the check. (She left me a voicemail saying that would work, so that ALMOST counts, right?) And we didn't make it to the library, because we took Katie up for her first ski day instead. It was a gorgeous, sunny day, and she had a blast, so it was well worth it. :) The library can wait for Friday. :)

[JenM]

Anne, I think a ski day is VERY worth blowing everything else off! I would do that in a heartbeat... Those special outings with kids are too rare not to take full benefit of them.

GROAN! Zoe woke up at 5:30 this morning. I am SO tired of her early rise times! Thank goodness I listened to my body and went to bed by 9 last night! DH stayed up to give Ellie a bottle so I could sleep... so I was only up at 1:30 and 4:30 last night... Not TOO bad :)

I got NOTHING done yesterday :( I am so bummed. I don't know what happened?! I swear... b/w nursings and feeding the baby... taking a nap... feeding Zoe... and just daily house maintenance stuff... Shrug. Oh well. I did play a LOT with the kids, which was good. I just never got around to vacuuming like I wanted to.

Sigh. Okay... goals for today:
Exercise and shower this morning... Take Zoe to a gymboree class... nap... Vacuum this afternoon... Bathe Ellie... 'Productive play' this afternoon with girls. The way I feel right now, though (Still VERY tired)... It'll be a miracle if I get any of it done :lol:

[harmonielyn]

Its 5:46am and im up. Madison started crying a little so I jumped out of bed. I made her a bottle and me a PB&J sandwich. I had my gallbladder out when I was 17 so if my stomach is empty I get this really awful pain. Madison fell back a sleep so now Im up with a warm bottle and shes sleeping.

Today's goals:
finish laundry
fold and pick up ALL loads of laundry that are done
rearrange bedroom furniture
clean out Madison's closet to send things to goodwill

I managed to get 1 load of laundry done
I did fold and pick up all clothes that were freshly washed
I didnt get to rearrange furniture
I cleaned out my closet, my dresser and DD's closet to send things to goodwill. Who knows what today holds.

[magoo]

Yesterday's list:

1. Take Anna to playgym DONE
2. Put away the laundry in the hallway DONE
3. Pack away old light in Anna's room DONE
4. Fold diapers and put away DONE

Woo Hoo!

I have Daniel today and Anna slept in (before Jen and Harmonie get jealous... sleeping in is 7, and she was up at 5 yesterday, so I feel your pain), which hopefully means one nap and who knows if it will coincide with Daniel's napping, so the list will be short:

1. Call Julie re: pictures
2. Vacuum downstairs
3. pay ezboard subscriptions

That's it.
Sarah

[Carla]

1) What is your name and family stats? (babies names, ages, etc...)

My name is Carla and I've been married to Mark since August 2000. We have one son Ethan born May 6th, 2002 and another baby who's due early August.

2) How long have you been a SAHM?

Officially since Ethan was born, but I left work in Feb. 2002 because of troubles I was having.

3) What did you do before this wonderful new job?

I was a Customer Service rep at Zellers, a Canadian retail store.

4) What are your priorities for each day? Where do you feel you need the most help with motivation in getting things done each day?

Basically getting through the day making sure we are all clothed, fed, sane and clean :lol:. My motivation is if I don't do it, it probably won't get done :rotflmao: . I need mega help in cleaning as I just don't feel like spending all my time cleaning. Plus, when I do, it's torn apart as soon as DH or DS come in the room.

5) What do you hope to get out of this journal?

A chance to interact with other SAHM's, more motivation to do the things I have to do, a place to put down what might be mundane to non-SAHM but is a daily part of life for those who are.

My to do list today:

Go grocery shopping
Bring some stuff to the Salvation Army (I currently have about 7 garbage bags and some boxes in the living room which I recently cleaned out. I've just been putting off bringing them)
Clean living room and start bedroom.....again for the tenth time this month :rolleyes:
Finish dishes and tidy kitchen

[harmonielyn]

:lol: Madison didnt wake up until 6:30! leaving me up 45 minutes before I needed to be up. Its ok though, shes sleeping again.

Im trying not to think about today's list but I guess I have to!
Today's list
Finish putting things back into Madison's closet.
Call Aunt about the humidifier
find a place to put cradle until it finds its way to SIL's house
pack and pick up other SIL's borrowed stuff
finish DH's work clothes.
Find something to cook for dinner
pay electric bill
clean computer desk
do dishes
make bottles
Added:
put chest in place since DH didnt do it
gather all extra blankets to put in there
oh yeah and take another shot at rearranging the bedroom furniture. Yesterday I only moved the night stand and moved the cradle out of our room


:tearhair:


put chest in place since DH didnt do it - DONE
gather all extra blankets to put in there - DONE
Call Aunt about the humidifier - DONE

[Jillian]

1) What is your name and family stats? (babies names, ages, etc...)
I'm Jillian and am 24, DH is Ryan and is also 24, DD is Janelle Ashlynn and she is 18 months. I'm 36 weeks pregnant today :jump2: with a boy, Kincaid Chance.
2) How long have you been a SAHM?
Since Janelle was born, I was at home for about a year before that as well though.
3) What did you do before this wonderful new job?
College
4) What are your priorities for each day? Where do you feel you need the most help with motivation in getting things done each day?

Right now my top priorities are Janelle and myself...though much less myself now that I've actually made it to full term (or at least close enough). After that comes laundry and picking up the living room.

[Jillian]

Today I'm having a ton of contractions...so I haven't done much. Janelle woke up at 8:30, but she had nightmares every 30-45 minutes from 4am till 8:30am, so I've been up for awhile. We need to finish sorting through her clothes and packing away the to small ones if these contractions will give me a break...if not, hopefully we can have a baby today instead.

[magoo]

Jillian, how WONDERFUL that you've made it to 36 weeks!! That's great!

Sarah

[~Andrea~]

:blue: I go tnothing done yesterday either. I just felt so BLAH yesterday. I don't know if it's the weather or just laziness (likely a combo of the 2 :blush: ). At least I got more done today already. I loaded and ran the dishwasher, and made breakfast.

[~Andrea~]

Jillian, how WONDERFUL that you've made it to 36 weeks!! That's great!

Sarah
That's further than I made it! You'll be a-ok!!:thumbsup:

[AahRee]

Okay, my list for today is short:
1. Sign the paperwork and pay the flooring lady for the new house.
2. Go to Target and buy bedding for Full-size bed.
3. Mail some packages.
4. Find the missing wet bag...

[~Andrea~]

My list (in no particular order)

* get a shower
* empty the dishwasher (after it's finished)
* reload the dishwasher
* clean the kitchen
* vaccuum
* put Gab's toys away
* make dinner

after John gets home

* go to ACMoore and/or Michaels (just to get out of the house and maybe use my GCs)

[Kris]

) What is your name and family stats? (babies names, ages, etc...) I am Kris and DH is Bruce, we have 2 kids, Emma (21 months almost) and Adam (3 months)
2) How long have you been a SAHM? since 3 months before Emma was born I was on bedrest
3) What did you do before this wonderful new job? I was a bartender and worked in a bank
4) What are your priorities for each day? Where do you feel you need the most help with motivation in getting things done each day? Just to play with my kids and keep them happy.
5) What do you hope to get out of this journal? Friendship and support. I think I may be going thourh a PPD.

[AahRee]

Wow, Jillian! How exciting!

[Eva]

I didn't do too badly on yesterdays list. The only thing I didn't do was work on my quilt.

Todays list:
Put away dishes
Go to Mommies group
Do load of Emma's laundry
Call friend regarding scrapebooking night
Try again to work on my quilt.

[SarahK]

Yesterday's list...
~go to library to exchange books (library was closed...funky hours :rolleyes: )
~go to post office DONE
~go to Target DONE
~maybe go to Costco DONE
~give Katie a bath DONE
~do one load of laundry and put all clothes away--including the ones that are folded in the basket right now DONE
~finishing making guest bed DONE

What a night last night. Ugh. I'm exhausted--I literally didn't get more than two hours of sleep--and that was broken up into small chunks of time. I'm so tired!

Here is today's list...even though it's almost 1pm!

~Go to JCP for Katie's pictures
~Clean kitchen
~Take out recycling for Brian
~Put away Costco purchases
~Do shredding (yuck!)
~Do one load of laundry AND put it away
~Take Katie for a walk

[SarahK]

Yay, Jillian!! How exciting that you've made it this far!! :supergrin:

Kris, you've got loads of support from me. As I was crying in bed last night (yet again) the thought of PPD crossed my mind (again) and I had myself talked into finally calling my OB about it...but in the light of day I always chicken out of calling him.

[harmonielyn]

Thanks to Sarah Im adding a walk to my list today!
Im trying not to think about today's list but I guess I have to!
Today's list
*Finish putting things back into Madison's closet.
*Call Aunt about the humidifier DONE
*find a place to put cradle until it finds its way to SIL's house
*pack and pick up other SIL's borrowed stuff DONE
*finish DH's work clothes. DONE
*Find something to cook for dinner DONE
*pay electric bill DONE
*clean computer desk DONE
*do dishes DONE
*make bottles
Added:
*put chest in place since DH didnt do it DONE
*gather all extra blankets to put in there DONE
*oh yeah and take another shot at rearranging the bedroom furniture. Yesterday I only moved the night stand and moved the cradle out of our room
*Go for a walk DONE
*Wash Madison's laundry DONE

[SarahK]

I highly recommend it, Harmonie! Katie loves going for walks (as long as the sun isn't in her eyes) and it's a good way to get away from whatever is bogging you down at home.

[Jillian]

Thanks guys, I'm extremely excited, after being hospitalized at 27 and 31 weeks no one thought I'd make it this far. Janelle was born at 36 weeks and she is perfect (well, at least in my opinion), so I'm very proud of myself for getting this far!

I definitely think you should call your OB sarah, I never had ppd after Janelle, but a couple of friends of ours had it and both of them wished they wouldn't of waited so long to finally call!

Kris, I really hope you start feeling better to, call your doctor, just like I told Sarah!

I got 1 of the 4 baskets of Janelle's clothes sorted through...I wish she would grow at a normal rate (right now she is at the 40th percentile for height and not even close to being on the charts for weight (about -10th to -15th%), so pants just don't fit at all...and it's just weird.) so sorting clothes didn't also mean trying a zillion outfits on her, she doesn't especially enjoy putting on fashion shows.

[lexie]

1) What is your name and family stats? (babies names, ages, etc...)
My Name is Lexie... I am married to DH Brian since 03-10-2001 and we have a 13 month old son Lane.
2) How long have you been a SAHM?
Since our Son was born, a year ago.
3) What did you do before this wonderful new job?
I worked at Kinko's with my husband.
4) What are your priorities for each day? Where do you feel you need the most help with motivation in getting things done each day?
Keep the house picked up..... Cook dinner and play lots with Lane!
5) What do you hope to get out of this journal?
I hope to find people I have things in common with and make new friends.


Today's goals:
Do Lane's Laundry

[harmonielyn]

I *love* seeing all those red 'done's!

[harmonielyn]

I highly recommend it, Harmonie! Katie loves going for walks (as long as the sun isn't in her eyes) and it's a good way to get away from whatever is bogging you down at home.

:bighug: Im sorry that you are feeling down! Dont feel bad about seeing your Dr. Its his/her job to take care of you and make you feel better!

Lately I've been trying to go for walks. Im not used to having that in my schedule so im trying to go 2 times a week. Plus it gives Madison some outside time. Last week a cool front came through though so we didnt get to walk. But today we did!

[magoo]

Kris, you've got loads of support from me. As I was crying in bed last night (yet again) the thought of PPD crossed my mind (again) and I had myself talked into finally calling my OB about it.Sarah, I'm so sorry! You've got so much on your plate right now. There are so many times that I could just pop over to your house, and have a little visit! This is definitely one of them!


but in the light of day I always chicken out of calling him. Put it on your list, then you'll have to do it :hug1:

Sarah

[magoo]

List for Thursday:
1. Call Julie re: pictures DONE
2. Vacuum downstairs Deferred until the weekend.
3. pay ezboard subscriptions DONE

Okay, vacuuming was just a stupid one to put on the list at all. I had both babes, they napped at different times, and there was no way that I was ever getting all the toys off the floor so that I could vacuum. I also had a headache for the better part of the day, and Anna went to bed early, and the vacuum wakes her up, so I'm out of time now.

List for Friday:
1. Order "leash" for Anna... oops, I meant to say "toddler harness"
2. Order Moby Wrap
3. Finalize price list
4. Wash fleece for diaper liners
5. pack up clothes for donation
6. pack away Anna's clothes that are too small
7. pack away Sam's clothes in Anna's closet

Okay, that should be enough for one day :)

Sarah

[AahRee]

Okay, my list for today is short:
1. Sign the paperwork and pay the flooring lady for the new house. DONE
2. Go to Target and buy bedding for Full-size bed. DONE
3. Mail some packages. Not done
4. Find the missing wet bag... Not done

I really wound up overdoing it today. :( We got the options stuff all taken care of (MIL came along to help with Katie, and to see what all we picked!) and then MIL, Katie and I went to Target. We were there for SO long. We ended up having lunch there, and I got a really bad case of the shakes. By the time we left, I was extremely nauseaous, and I wound up having to have MIL drive me home and take my car back to her house. She's going to watch Katie tomorrow while I get my blood drawn, so she'll just drive back in the morning and pick me up, and take me to that. But... ugh. We got home, and Katie and I took a nap for about 1.5 hours, and I'm STILL really feeling sick. I have that *wanting to :puke: * feeling, but I know I'm not actually going to do it.

However, I do feel good about getting the options stuff taken care of, and I'm happy with the sheets we bought at Target, so at least the day wasn't a total waste!

[AahRee]

If it's easier to go to your regular GP and talk about PPD with him or her, do that instead. It doesn't have to be your OB, unless you want it to be. I ended up talking (initially) with the nurse practitioner at my GP's office. I swear... it was one of the best things I EVER did for myself. It was over a year after Katie was born, because I procrastinated THAT long about doing it. And honestly... if you really think about it, I robbed Katie of having a mommy who wasn't dealing with PPD for over a year of her life. I'm not trying to make you feel guilty AT ALL, but if you think it would help, I'd HIGHLY recommend talking to your doctor about PPD.

What they'll do is, they'll have you fill out a questionnaire, where you evaluate certain statements.
For example, it will say:
I enjoy being around attractive people of the opposite sex. (I think this question sticks with me because it is so bizarre!)
And you'll evaluate the truth of that statement by circling one of the following:
Most or all of the time; A lot of the time; Some of the Time; Little to none of the time.

There's a standard list of questions, and your answers get scored according to a chart, and they tell you where you fall in the spectrum of anxiety and/or depression. And from there, you can talk about meds, or counseling, or both. And if you decide to decline meds and counseling, that's fine, too.

Anyway, I wound up going on Celexa in August, and I was seriously a new person after starting it. It has made such a difference for me, and if you think it might help you at ALL, I highly recommend going in to see your doctor about it. :nod: The hardest part is making that appointment. It took me over a year to do, but it was so worth it once I did it. :bighug:


Yay, Jillian!! How exciting that you've made it this far!! :supergrin:

Kris, you've got loads of support from me. As I was crying in bed last night (yet again) the thought of PPD crossed my mind (again) and I had myself talked into finally calling my OB about it...but in the light of day I always chicken out of calling him.

[Carla]

My to do list today:

Go grocery shopping Done

Bring some stuff to the Salvation Army: I didn't do this as we were in a rush doing the groceries and the weather was calling for freezing rain

Clean living room and start bedroom: Done

Finish dishes and tidy kitchenDone (for the most part :blush: )

I also got some laundry done (including some fabric pre-washing, which I almost never do), diapers sorted/put away and I got the main floors done. I got so much done today there shouldn't be too much to do tommorow :clap:

Kris, I hear you on the PPD. I made the mistake of going to a really crappy counsellor when I had it after Ethan (I was referred to her and it's a long story, but did way more harm than good). I've struggled with depression all my life, right now it's mostly situational and we can't afford for me to go on meds. Hopefully you can find the help you're looking for, but here's a :hug1: for you!

[Kris]

I went on Zoloft and it has taken the edge off I guess but not completely. I don't have health insurance anymore so once I am done with this bottle I am done with the meds. Until I can afford it again.

I am not good at making lists.

My list:
Make a list :lol:

[harmonielyn]

My list:
Make a list :lol:
:lol: I dont even want to think about tomorrow's list. I really outdid myself today. :faint:

[kalynnsmom]

Sorry I'm very late! :blush:



1) What is your name and family stats? (babies names, ages, etc...)
I'm Celeste, married to Bill. Kalynn is 19 months old.

2) How long have you been a SAHM?
I have been a SAHM since last June.

3) What did you do before this wonderful new job?
I was a Teacher's Assistant for Special Ed. I worked with the Severe and Profound. It was very challenging, but I loved it!

4) What are your priorities for each day? Where do you feel you need the most help with motivation in getting things done each day?
I am a full time student, so getting homework done, I need motivation to clean!! I get so frustrated that I can only keep the house clean for, oh, an hour. And when Kalynn's awake, for about 10 minutes! :lol:

5) What do you hope to get out of this journal? Tips from other SAHM's, adult interaction

[magoo]

Here to change my list a little :)

List for Friday:
1. Order "leash" for Anna... oops, I meant to say "toddler harness"
2. Order Moby Wrap
3. Finalize price list
4. Wash fleece for diaper liners
5. dig out guest bed and put clean sheets on it
6. pack away Anna's clothes that are too small
7. pack away Sam's clothes in Anna's closet

[TtownAnne]

I'm late getting here, but I'm here! :)


1) What is your name and family stats? (babies names, ages, etc...) James, 34; Anne, 31; Caroline, approaching 2 1/2.
2) How long have you been a SAHM? Since Day 1 - I guess technically since March 2002 when I told them I wasn't coming back to work.
3) What did you do before this wonderful new job? a legal secretary specializing in labor, employment and harassment law.
4) What are your priorities for each day? Where do you feel you need the most help with motivation in getting things done each day? I think the most help I need is in getting things done around the house - I tend to take too much time "just checking the computer for a sec" and three hours later I haven't emptied the dishwasher! :blush:
5) What do you hope to get out of this journal? Hanging out with people who can appreciate the fact that even if we don't go OUT to work every day, it's still not a day of eating bonbons and sleeping until noon.

[TtownAnne]

My list for today:

post office to mail swap package Check!
MVA to order hubby's new license plates check!
Pennsylvania Dutch market to pick up some fruit and special candy for my mom! check!
get directions to go see Elmo tomorrow (he's appearing at a mall near here) check!
sort through the toys and find some to put away working on it....
Track down my Ebay seller and figure out how to pay for multiple auctions at once, because her instructions make ZERO sense. waiting for reply to my email

[Carla]

I got an early start to things, so I'm feeling ahead of the game for cleaning today :) . It's snowing out, so I'll be in all day as I hate to go out in the snow.

Todays List:
*Make bread and split pea soup for supper
*Make beds and fix up crib (it's side car'd to our bed and has become a junk collection spot. Oh and I'm not the type to make the beds, but its something I want to start doing every day)
*Laundry
*start cutting and sewing newborn diapers
*pack away some of Ethan's outgrown clothes and try to get rid of more he doesn't wear

[kalynnsmom]

1. Order "leash" for Anna... oops, I meant to say "toddler harness"
ooh! I need one of those! Where are you ordering yours from?

Today is Kalynn's MRI:

Reminder:

Anything before 9am
Clear liquids after 9am
Nothing after 12:30pm

Leave here around 1:15

[~Andrea~]

I'm embarrassed to even admit that my list is pretty much the same as yesterdays' as I didn't get a whole lot accomplished. I may add go to Wal-Mart to that list, just to get out of the house.

[harmonielyn]

Im so proud of myself for getting so much done. Im not trying to rub it in, I just cant believe I actually did all of that. :lol: I slept like a rock last night because I was so tired. My house is still clean so I was trying to keep my list short. Its not working since I keep adding things to do.

Today's list 03/12/2004
*Put coffee table back in place
*pick up vaccum
*pick up pillow and blanket from sleeping on the couch this morning
*make formula DONE
*Open the house, DH says its nice out today in progress
*finish sorting through DD's stuffed animals to give to goodwill
*drop off things at goodwill
*put away laundry that was left in the dryer yesterday

[lexie]

Hey Everyone... Hope everybody's day is going smoothly! I am so excited because my Mom is coming in town from Wichita! I haven't seen her in 2 months! :yippee: She is so excited to see Lane. I am a little tired :sleeping: today because I went out last night but I will be fine. Having my parents here is always worth it!

My List:

1. Make sure house is picked up.
2. Make an effort to be ready when they get here so everything isn't rushed.
3. Make sure Lane takes a good nap so he is in a good mood. :thumbsup:
4. Recover from last night.
5. Make time to watch AMC, OLTL, GH.

[SarahK]

Celeste, I hope Kalynn's MRI goes well today! :nod:

[SarahK]

Yesterday's List...
~Go to JCP for Katie's pictures DONE
~Clean kitchen (mostly) DONE
~Take out recycling for Brian DONE
~Put away Costco purchases DONE
~Do shredding (yuck!) partly done...discovered Katie is scared of the shredder...
~Do one load of laundry AND put it away partly done...clothes are washed, but I forgot that most of them need to hang dry
~Take Katie for a walk DONE

I'm pretty pleased with what I accomplished yesterday...but I feel like there is so much to do before my MIL arrives tomorrow night! Ack!

Today's List...
~fold & put away extra linens
~wash & put away towels
~wash bathroom vanity and powder room vanity
~clear random office supplies off table
~dust master bedroom
~quick tidy in Katie's room
~make grocery list

[Eva]

Thursdays list:
Put away dishes DONE
Go to Mommies group DONE
Do load of Emma's laundry I did it this morning instead
Call friend regarding scrapebooking night: I couldn't get hold of her so I sent an email
Try again to work on my quilt. again not done :(

Fridays list:

Go to Dentist
Go to ticket center to pick up Stomp tickets. :)
Go to grocery store
Finish laundry

[lexie]

Hey Everyone... Hope everybody's day is going smoothly! I am so excited because my Mom is coming in town from Wichita! I haven't seen her in 2 months! :yippee: She is so excited to see Lane. I am a little tired :sleeping: today because I went out last night but I will be fine. Having my parents here is always worth it!

My List:

1. Make sure house is picked up. Done
2. Make an effort to be ready when they get here so everything isn't rushed- Done
3. Make sure Lane takes a good nap so he is in a good mood. :thumbsup: -Almost Done
4. Recover from last night. -Done
5. Make time to watch AMC, OLTL, GH. -Done

[harmonielyn]

Im having a lost day.. Im doing everything except whats on my list.


Today's list 03/12/2004
*Put coffee table back in place
*pick up vaccum
*pick up pillow and blanket from sleeping on the couch this morning DONE
*make formula DONE
*Open the house, DH says its nice out today in progress
*finish sorting through DD's stuffed animals to give to goodwill DONE
*drop off things at goodwill
*put away laundry that was left in the dryer yesterday DONE

[SarahK]

Today's List...
~fold & put away extra linens DONE
~wash & put away towels DONE
~wash bathroom vanity and powder room vanity
~clear random office supplies off table
~dust master bedroom DONE
~quick tidy in Katie's room DONE
~make grocery list

Harmonie, I keep doing things that aren't on my list, too...I'd feel more productive if I listed them so that I could check them off! :lol:

[harmonielyn]

Today's List...
~fold & put away extra linens DONE
~wash & put away towels DONE
~wash bathroom vanity and powder room vanity
~clear random office supplies off table
~dust master bedroom DONE
~quick tidy in Katie's room DONE
~make grocery list

Harmonie, I keep doing things that aren't on my list, too...I'd feel more productive if I listed them so that I could check them off! :lol:


:rotflmao: I always think about doing that.

I would add: wash curtains for both big windows..dining room and living room
clean glass on both big windows
pick up godchild

[SarahK]

Maybe I should add in changing diapers and nursing...that way I'll have lots and lots to cross off! :lol:

[JenM]

SO many things you ladies are writing I relate to and it cracks me up!

Anne (Ttowne):.. Your comment about how much time just checking the computer for a sec adds up to 3 hours later! LOL. TOOO funny!

Anne (AahRee):.. let us know how the results come back

Sarah and Lexie... nothing like having company to put the ants in your pants for cleaning the house, huh? Sometimes I think we should invite over company every weekend just to get me motivated :lol:

Sarah... I'd love to see the pics you had taken!

Harmonie... a "lost" day every now and then isn't a bad thing. Especially when you do a weeks worth of stuff in ONE day!

I hope you girls do follow up with your Dr.s about the PPD... it is NOT something to be trifled with. Your mental health is imperative for you AND for your babies.

As for me :blush: Haven't been by here for two days... but that's because I've been getting SO much done :)

My house is CLEAN... and I do mean CLEAN with a capital 'C'... Woo hoo! I got so much done the past two days... Cleaned all the clutter stuff up and found a home for everything... dusted.. vacuumed... mopped... got some laundry done... PLUS I got out with Zoe both days to classes and to play outside... Got lots of Ellie cuddle time in... working on getting that baby to really LAUGH for me still... got my exercise on the treadmill in both days and did pretty good organizing dinner (though we ordered take out sushi tonight.. heh)... So I feel GOOD.

My only goal for this weekend is to exercise and spend time with the girls... Since my house is clean I get to take a break :) Though I do think I want to make a weekly list to make it easier to keep up the housework... I'm thinking:
Mondays'... laundry day... change sheets on beds and vacuum bedrooms
Tuesdays... bathroom days
Wednesdays... Vacuum downstairs and dust
Thursdays... clean kitchen day
Fridays... do anything that I DIDN'T get done during the week.

Does anyone else have a "schedule" sort of thing like that? I'm wondering if that will help me?

I hope everyone has a FABULOUS weekend!

[harmonielyn]

I dont have any kind of schedule. I just do what needs to be done. If something doesnt need to be cleaned just yet I surely am not doing it! :lol: My house is a total wreck now, its my fault though. It stayed clean all day today but about 2 hours ago I dragged my queen size matress out from our room to the middle of the living room. I guess I just felt like having one of those nights.

[Carla]

Todays List:
*Make bread and split pea soup for supper done
*Make beds and fix up crib ( not done
*Laundry done
*start cutting and sewing newborn diapers done
*pack away some of Ethan's outgrown clothes and try to get rid of more he doesn't wear not done

Ethan just kept me so busy yesterday that it was hard to get done. When he finally had a nap, I was too tired to do much. I have really bad pregnancy fatigue and everything wears me out. I can't wait until it's nice enough to get outside as I think I have a bit of the winter blues.

My list is short today. I just want to get the house good and clean for Sunday since I don't do any cleaning that day (it's our Sabbath).

[sheila]

1) What is your name and family stats? (babies names, ages, etc...)
I'm Sheila, I'm 33. DH is Stagg, he's 30. We have 2 lovely daughters: Maggie 22.5 months & Katie 2.5 months.

2) How long have you been a SAHM?
I've been a SAHM since Maggie was born. I've done some work from home on & off the whole time.

3) What did you do before this wonderful new job?
Before this, I was a Web Manager for an international Consumer Electronics company.

4) What are your priorities for each day? Where do you feel you need the most help with motivation in getting things done each day?
My priorities are my family, my marriage, my home & my work. I rate somewhere after all that...

5) What do you hope to get out of this journal?
I'd like to start getting more of a sense of balance... and including my own needs & wants as more than an afterthought. I'm looking forward to sharing more with other S/WAHMs to compare notes & generally be around...

[SarahK]

Way to go with accomplishing so much, Jen!

Well, Saturday is just another weekday for me since Brian works six days a week. My MIL is coming in tonight so I won't be around all that much until Thursday.

Saturday's List
~finish shredding
~tidy family room
~finish photo albums
~iron pants & overalls
~tidy kitchen
~grocery shopping
~tidy dining room
~load of laundry
~fold clothes

[kalynnsmom]

Celeste, I hope Kalynn's MRI goes well today! :nod:
Thanks! It went well, she had to be sedated and she fought til the end! :lol:

Today's list:
Clean livingroom
Clean bathroom
Clean kitchen
Laundry
Go to consignment store to get some new pj's

[AahRee]

Thanks for the good thoughts yesterday. The nurse who gave me my test results said that they were good, but in my opinion, they were the worst possible results.

I did this treatment a couple of weeks ago, and did only one dose. My sed rate (the thing they're trying to get down) was 38 before the first treatment, and went down to 26 after it, which is a drop of 12. So, they decided to do a full series of three treatments. Right before the first of the three treatments, my sed rate was 35. After the three treatments, it was down to 23 (which was the result I was waiting on yesterday). So, a difference of 12 again... only, this time, they used three times the medicine to get the exact same result. :rolleyes: And my sed rate STILL isn't in the normal range (which is 0-20). So, I really don't get how that is supposed to be good news! Anyway, I now have to go BACK to get another blood test next Wednesday, and see if my sed rate has gone down further, stayed the same, or started to go back up. So, basically... my test results came back as a gigantic MAYBE, and what I really wanted was a yes or no. :(

So, anyway... other than getting my test results, I didn't get anything done. And my list for today is really just to mail a couple of packages and then attempt to relax. The house is just going to have to stay messy for a few more days!

[harmonielyn]

I have NO list today. And im not even trying to finish yesterday's list. :lol: I feel kinda funky today. If I pass by something and it needs to be straightened. . I might do it. :sleeping:

[SarahK]

Good for you, Harmonie! :nod: I wouldn't be quite so gungho with my lists if my MIL weren't coming into town tonight!

[SarahK]

Here's how I'm doing...

Saturday's List
~finish shredding DONE
~tidy family room
~finish photo albums DONE
~iron pants & overalls
~tidy kitchen
~grocery shopping DONE
~tidy dining room
~load of laundry DONE
~fold clothes

[harmonielyn]

you iron? I dont even own one! Not like I would know how to use it even if I did have one.

I didnt mean that in a bad way. :blush:

[SarahK]

Yeah, I iron...I even ironed the hems of the pillowcases and top sheet for the guest bed. :blush:

[Carla]

Anne, let your house be messy! You deserve it. It's too bad they couldn't get your sed rate lower :(

My house is messy and I keep telling myself I deserve it :lol: . I decided to go to mom's for the day because I'm so tired of being in the house and it's nice to have someone else cook supper and other people to entertain Ethan. I've been having a lot of cramping so I should be taking it easy anyway. I have to prepare two lessons for church tommorow (one is just in case as I teach a Young Women's class if any show up, and I have to be prepared just in case. Otherwise I'm teaching the women. I like teaching the girls better).

I'll probably tidy up a bit before going to bed as it's not that bad since we weren't home all day. Oh, DH and I did something we've been wanting to do for ages....we took the frame off the bed and just put the mattress and box spring on the floor with our old futon mattress on top. It matches the level of the crib next to it and it is way more comfy. Plus the frame was old and loose, which was ruining the box spring. I also managed to clean off the crib, so that's something from yesterday I did :) . I'm going to see if I can talk DH into doing the dishes.

[SarahK]

Carla, I'm glad you're taking it easy (well, relatively easy!) today--I can't believe you do as much as you do...and you're PG *and* you have a toddler! Wow!

[Carla]

Well, someone has to do it :) . The fatigue isn't as bad as first tri, but it's just so tiring chasing a busy toddler around all day and trying to take care of everything around the house. I try not to feel bad when things slip, but I see other mothers with more on their plate with spotless houses so it's hard not to feel a little guilty. It's hard not to compare myself to other moms sometimes.

Every time I see mom, she asks what I'm going to do with two. Probably what every other mother with two does, manage ;)

[JenM]

Ah yes! The days of just managing are here fore me now.. and sometimes I really FEEL it. Totally OFF topic.. but Ellie has been SOOOO fussy today :( There are seriously days when I feel like I spend 90% of my time just holding Ellie and the rest of the time either feeling guilty about what I'm not getting done or recouperating from the emotions of feeling exhausted from dealing with a crying baby. Today wasn't too bad except she did a LOT of crying all morning.. .then she finally had a huge pooplosion in the afternoon and she seemed to settle a lot after that.. for the afternoon.. then she ended up having a tough evening. Sigh. I'll be glad when the infant phase is over.

Anne, as everyone else said, I'm sorry the results weren't definitive for you. I sure hope they come back nice and low on Wednesday.

Sarah, what IS shredding anyway? :lol: I've been wondering that.

[TtownAnne]

I didn't get anything useful done today beyond clipping coupons and running the dishwasher because we spent a good part of the day traveling to a mall about 70 miles away to see ELMO! So we saw Elmo, mosied around the mall, had a nice lunch, and then came home. However, tonight I will be productive - for myself! - because I'm going to the late-night sale at Kohls and treating myself to some spring clothes.

[JillMelissa]

I'm kinda late joining in, but I'm here too!

1) What is your name and family stats? (babies names, ages, etc...)
I'm Jill, 28, DH is Chuck, 30, and our daughter is Emily - 9 months.
2) How long have you been a SAHM?
Since February 2003.
3) What did you do before this wonderful new job?
I was a mortgage underwriter.
4) What are your priorities for each day? Where do you feel you need the most help with motivation in getting things done each day?
Survival is my main priority! :lol: Actually my main priority has been making sure Emily is getting enough daytime sleep, trying to stick to a general routine since that's what she thrives on, and just letting her have lots of fun exploring the world around her!
5) What do you hope to get out of this journal?
Just chatting with all the other SAHM's out there!

[Jillian]

I'll probably tidy up a bit before going to bed as it's not that bad since we weren't home all day. Oh, DH and I did something we've been wanting to do for ages....we took the frame off the bed and just put the mattress and box spring on the floor with our old futon mattress on top. It matches the level of the crib next to it and it is way more comfy.
This is what we have right now...we did it so it would match the level of the crib (which I think Janelle *might* sleep in maybe once a month...dh however ends up in there one or two times a week), but it turned out to be much more comfy!

[Carla]

Ours weren't level and sometimes Ethan would get stuck in the crack (I've been worried about the baby and that space. Ethan was older and quite mobile when we moved the crib next to the bed). Now it's just one big sleeping area, which is nice. I think I spent half the night in the crib and didn't even mind, lol! Ethan almost never slept on or in the crib but I'm hoping the baby will so we'll all fit :lol: . Ethan sometimes sleeps in his own bed, but rarely for the full night.

Well, I hardly did a thing at home today. I washed some diapers this morning (they're still sitting in the rinse though so I can finish them tommorow) but other than that, not much. Mondays are good cleaning days though. I'll have to come up with a list because I want to be more organized.

[redhairedgirl]

DH has been hogging the computer lately in the evenings, and I am trying my hardest not to get on it as often during the day....


1) What is your name and family stats? (babies names, ages, etc...)
I'm Mandy (27), DH is Jeremy (32), and Aiden (8 months).

2) How long have you been a SAHM?
Since the day Aiden was born!

3) What did you do before this wonderful new job?
I was a SAHW.... a real far jump, wasn't it? :rotflmao:

4) What are your priorities for each day? Where do you feel you need the most help with motivation in getting things done each day?

My number one priority is back preservation. I herniated a disc during Aiden's delivery, and it happens to be the absolute last disc in my lumbar spine above the tailbone. It also is pinching my sciatic nerve and shoots pain down my leg every now and then. It's so bad that I can't walk. Fortunately, I have been able to gain relief through conservative treatment.

My second priority is Aiden. I don't like that I'm putting my back first, but honestly, I put him first for many months, and now he's more mobile on his own. I also suffered for about 5 months before I finally had ANY type of pain relief with the back pain.

My third priority is the rest of me....
After that, it's DH, then the dog, then the house.

My biggest problem is over-exerting my back. I also need to lose some weight, eat healthier, and I am NOT good at this at all. I have had horrible eating habits and all sorts of issues in the past.
Oddly enough, I do not have any problems keeping the housework up, so you can all hate me there. I am very anal and extremely routine. I did have a cleaning company come a few weeks ago and they did a thorough scrub down. It has been easy staying on top of things now. I'd REALLY like to get Aiden into more activities, as I feel he's not getting challenged enough. Basically, it's my own procrastination that holds me back from some things.
Like Anne, I get on the computer to "just check my email real quick" and the next thing I know, I've wasted a day staring at the screen. So, I've *really* been trying to just limit computer usage to the evenings, after Aiden goes to bed. But, DH is now hogging the computer at night. Guess I can't complain too much... I am getting more accomplished.

5) What do you hope to get out of this journal?
To learn more about the rest of you.... to hold myself MORE accountable for my own priorities. I signed up for flylady.com a few weeks ago, and I have found if I don't have anyone to "talk" with about it, I'm more likely to just let things slide.

Mandy

[Hilary]

1) What is your name and family stats? (babies names, ages, etc...)
Me: Hilary, 25
DH: Travis, 29
baby #1: Madelynn, 2, 2/15/02
baby #2: Ava, 2 1/2 weeks, 2/25/04
2) How long have you been a SAHM? Since the day Madelynn was born! My last day of work was 2/13/02 and I was scheduled to work 2/15! :lol:
3) What did you do before this wonderful new job? I worked at the circulation desk at the library and went to school full time.
4) What are your priorities for each day? My girls!
Where do you feel you need the most help with motivation in getting things done each day? Household chores (not too worried about this one since DH hired a cleaning lady! :woo: ), exercise.
5) What do you hope to get out of this journal?:dunno:

[TtownAnne]

Okay gals, I'm facing a serious SAH dilemma and it's frustrating me to the limits and DH is no help, so I have to put it out there for someone to hear. Caroline is desperately attached to me. Don't get me wrong, most kids prefer their mother to their father, at least in these early years, but I think it's reaching dangerous proportions now. For instance, I recently made an appointment to get a haircut while DH took Caroline shopping for a new carseat. Lo and behold, halfway through my haircut the door opens up with a shrieking toddler and there is James, who tells me that she was screaming so badly for Mommy throughout the stores that he was afraid to stay there before someone thought he was hurting her. Attachment is one thing, and stranger anxiety is one thing, but when Caroline can't even handle going out with her FATHER, I think we're reaching dangerous proportions. I can count on one hand the number of times James and I have been out alone in two years, because he refuses to use a babysitter that isn't family (considering that his family is in NY and my parents live 80 miles away, you see the inherent problem in that)

Before anyone suggest that she need socialization, we have done all sorts of stuff since she was a little baby. We do Gymboree every week, storytime every week, playtime with her little friends, the whole shebang. But it's the day to day existence that I can't even cook dinner alone because she refuses to just stay with my husband that is making me INSANE.

So, I don't know what I want any of you to say. :dunno: I don't know if there are suggestions to be made, or ideas, or the fact that my husband is paranoid, or I just have to gut it out until she goes to kindergarten. I just needed to get it out before DH and I have a drag-out fight this evening! (after the Sopranos, of course, because that is soooo important. :rolleyes: )

[Cortney]

1) What is your name and family stats? (babies names, ages, etc...)
I'm Cortney, married to Josh, Morgan is dd (born 11 Dec. 2001)

2) How long have you been a SAHM? I was one for 9 months right after Morgan was born, then went back to school for a year (including the summer) and this fall I took back off again!!!

3) What did you do before this wonderful new job? Before the FIRST time I worked as an estimator in construction and before this current time I went to school full time.

4) What are your priorities for each day? Having fun with Morgan, keeping the house clean, cooking dinner.

Where do you feel you need the most help with motivation in getting things done each day? Laundry- ick!!! (and I *HATE* to mop the floors)

5) What do you hope to get out of this journal? Support and encouragement.

[Cortney]

So, I don't know what I want any of you to say. :dunno: I don't know if there are suggestions to be made, or ideas, or the fact that my husband is paranoid, or I just have to gut it out until she goes to kindergarten. I just needed to get it out before DH and I have a drag-out fight this evening! (after the Sopranos, of course, because that is soooo important. :rolleyes: )

A few things...what does your husband have against any babysitter that's not family? How do you feel about other babysitters? I DEFINITELY think you need to get out away from her- you can do all the things you want WITH her, but it's really not going to help when it comes time for you to leave. PLUS she need that independence right now and it will never happen if you don't let her gain it.

But definitely something- even if it's just one day a week preschool or something.

Also- why did James bring her to you when you were getting your haircut? I'm really not trying to step on your toes, but I'm sure she wasn't hurt or anything, just missing you and for her to cry and then get you keeps the situation going.

[AahRee]

Anne, I agree with Cortney. It's hard on Caroline because she's never had to be away from you. I think a day a week of preschool (or even a half day) would do wonders for your situation. Of course, it's totally none of my business, and you have to do what you and James are comfortable with. But I don't think you should have to have Caroline chained to your ankles until she starts Kindergarten... :bighug:

Well, I haven't gotten a whole lot done this weekend at all. On Thursday afternoon, I started getting nauseaous (and grinding my teeth...), and I thought it was nerves about my test results. When it persisted on Friday, I thought it was nerves about having to wait until this coming Wednesday to see if my sed rate goes back up. But Friday night, the nausea turned into full-fledged stomach cramps and...other stuff... and last night was more of the same, only worse. It was so bad that we ended up calling the on-call doctor, and almost went to the E.R. :( Fortunately, the on-call doctor said that it was probably a side-effect of the steroids (which I feel like a major idiot for not thinking of myself...) and that I needed to start chewing Tums like they were candy. I ate about 5 Tums last night, and drank a bunch of water, and felt a little better this morning. However, I was not going to chance going to church and having to make a run to the bathroom. :owow: So, Phil and Katie went by themselves and I stayed home. I did get some Tagamet and took a double dose (per the on-call doctor's instructions) and I'm feeling a LOT better now. But I managed to get exactly NOTHING done all weekend. Well, that's not true. I read a good book (Kate White's A Body To Die For) and I drove past our new house today and saw that they've finally painted it. :) But my DH has done all the cooking, cleaning, packing, etc. all weekend. :(

My list for tomorrow has only ONE really important item on it:
1. Call the title company and straighten out our title! (Apparantly, they have a loan against our title that we paid off in our refinance last summer. :tearhair: )

Anything else I get done will just be a bonus! :)

[JenM]

UGH! Maybe the best place to start is to get Caroline to just be comfortable alone with Daddy for a while. Maybe if your DH takes her to the park when the weather starts to get nicer... She'd hopefully be happy enough b/c there would be so many things to do. If he can do this with her... twice a week to start... If she'll get comfortable with that.... Then you can start thinking of other things. We actually found a nanny who is a mom herself.. to a special needs child... She is WONDERFUL! I wonder if your DH is uncomfortable leaving her with someone b/c he thinks of a babysitter as a "kid"? If you found an ADULT who is also a parent... maybe that would help? And have her come in just once a week for a few hours... You could just go grocery shopping. This just to help Caroline start to ease up a little with her attachment to you? You could even just have the person come play with her in the beginning with you still IN the house... just not right in the room to help her? Babysteps... you know? Of course, you have to get your DH on board first, I suppose.

Anne... just want to give you a :bighug: I'm glad you are feeling better, at least :)

[harmonielyn]

My to-do list for tomorrow is going to be huge.. I already dont want to get up in the morning.

[kalynnsmom]

Today's list:
Clean livingroom Done!
Clean bathroom Done! with the help of DH!
Clean kitchen Tomorrow!
Laundry working on it!
Go to consignment store to get some new pj's done

[Hilary]

:bighug: Anne. I'm sorry you aren't feeling well.

Madelynn was a lot like Caroline for awhile! :nod: What helped her be more relaxed around DH was when I took a night class and they were home alone together for a few hours at a time. She started daycare at the same time though, so that could have made a difference too. But, from reading what you posted it sounds like your DH was out with her. Any chance he could just stay home alone with her sometimes? That might help. :crossfing

[Carla]

Anne, I don't have any advise that's better than what's given, just a few :hug99:'s . Ethan's super attached too but he'll tolerate a few people (dad and grandparents, who fortunately live close). That must be really hard on you.

Today, I just want to clean the wreckage from the weekend :lol: . It's not too bad actually, mostly laundry, dishes, tidying, normal everyday things.

We're going out for supper with my family as it's my Father's birthday. I'm also going to make him a gift, probably a t-shirt with either his buisness logo or of Ethan that says "Grampy's Boy". I haven't decided yet.

I also have some booties I started making yesterday that I want to finish. I want to have a matching outfit for the baby coming home, so I'm making booties, bib, hat and possibly a little gown to match the adorable diaper I made :heart: . I'm so hoping it's a girl, but yellow isn't too bad for a boy, right ;)

[magoo]

Anne ~ Anna is quite attatched to me as well, but she doesn't have the same problem with DH. She has a problem with everyone else, though. Then again, she started 'making strange' at 8 weeks old! One thing that DH does with Anna is "Daddy-daughter time" where they might go to a hardware store on Sat. morning, or just play together while I have a bit of alone time. Maybe if they have a special time together it would help. :dunno: Eric also bathes her 99% of the time, so they have that time for just the two of them too. I hope that things improve soon. It must be hard on everyone!

Sarah

[~Andrea~]

2) How long have you been a SAHM? Since the day Madelynn was born! My last day of work was 2/13/02 and I was scheduled to work 2/15! :lol:

:rolleyes: I hear you on that :lol: My last day was January 3, 2003 I was supposed to work until January 10th and Gabrielle was born on January 5th. I was testing that week (mid-year testing) and my boss was not too happy that she had to do it b/c my sub was not trained. Oh well.

[TtownAnne]

Hahahahaha - I win this contest. I had a dr. appointment on 12/6, where he told me I was 2cm, 80%. But he said I could go like that for weeks. However, because I had severe swelling in my feet and legs, he gave me a note to get out of work until my due date (12/28). I went in to work, turned in my note, got some things from my desk, and went home. Caroline was born at 8:04 the next morning!

[~Andrea~]

Hahahahaha - I win this contest. I had a dr. appointment on 12/6, where he told me I was 2cm, 80%. But he said I could go like that for weeks. However, because I had severe swelling in my feet and legs, he gave me a note to get out of work until my due date (12/28). I went in to work, turned in my note, got some things from my desk, and went home. Caroline was born at 8:04 the next morning!
Nah she was only 3 weeks early :lol: Gabrielle was more than 4 weeks early :wtf:

[lexie]

So... I have actually got alot accomplished today! :victory: I got two and a half hours of work done, for a side job that I do to help out with the bills and got the house picked up! On top of that Lane is fed and down for his daily nap! Wow... Makes me feel better about the day! Hope all of you are having a good one. :banana:

[Michele]

I'm late too, but I wanted to join in.

1) What is your name and family stats? (babies names, ages, etc...)
My name is Michele (27) DH is Scott (28 on Thursday) and Jackson is 4.5 months

2) How long have you been a SAHM?
Since the day Jackson was born. He was 5 weeks early, so I went into work on Friday (10/24/03), and decided I needed to get all the stuff done that I had been putting off, just in case the baby was early. I went home that night, went out to dinner with a friend, went to bed and woke up at 6am on Saturday (10/25/03) b/c my water broke. Jackson was born at 1:58pm that day...

3) What did you do before this wonderful new job?
I was an assistant project manager at an architecture firm. I am not an architect, so I handled all the non-design aspects of a job, contracts, budgets, invoicing etc. Not very exciting!

4) What are your priorities for each day? Where do you feel you need the most help with motivation in getting things done each day?
My priorities are Jackson, the housework and mayself (meaning eating better and exercising. I have been eating junk and sitting on my butt since October). I too tend to hop on the computer for just a second and end up being on for an hour. We are in the process of selling our condo, so I have to keep it clean for showings. I also feel that Jackson needs more playtime, but I don't know exactly how to play with him. He has a very short attention span at the moment.

5) What do you hope to get out of this journal?
Support, accountability, to talk to people who know what it is like to SAH, and to get to know people better.

[Michele]

I started this a long time ago, so I have actually finished my (short) list for today...

1. Tidy up for realtor's meeting DONE
2. Take long walk with Jackson DONE
3. Eat a healthy lunch DONE
4. Cook dinner DONE

Tomorrow's list

1. Buy Scott a birthday present and card
2. Buy ingredients for Scott's birthday dinner
3. Call church about christening for Jackson
4. Call 2 other realtor's for appraisals
5. Call today's realtor if don't hear from him by tomorrow afternoon
6. Return sweater to Gap, and pants/sweater to Macy's
7. Walk with Jackson
8. Eat healthy lunch (NO FOOD COURT AT THE MALL!!!)

[Carla]

I got enough done today, although I didn't do everything.

Tommorow's list:
Put away clothes
Finish dishes
Tidy bedrooms
Try packing up more junk to give away!!
Ultrasound at 2:20 :supergrin:

Again, I don't care if I get much done. We might be going to the IL's for supper, so between that, going to the hospital and any other things that may pop up, I might not be home much. Dh just found a moldy strawberry in Ethan's room, so I guess I should check his room out tommorow for other treasures :tongue2:

[Jillian]

-Get Janelle bathed, dressed, and her hair done
-Go to midwife appointment and fluid level/growth ultrasounds

If we get all that done and aren't to exhausted I still need to finish sorting Janelle's clothes.

[lexie]

OK... So I have a very busy day if I choose to get out to do it all....

1. I need to go look for a new stroller... I have a Eddie Bauer and the wheels turn in when you are pushing it.... Very annoying!:nono:
2. Go to Sam's and exchange some overalls.... I overestimated the size.
3. Go to the Grocery Store.
4. Go to the Bank.
5. Figure Out what to do for dinner.

[harmonielyn]

Yesterday's DONE list:

Disconnect stereo DONE
Bring stereo to mom's house DONE
Bring old highchair to mom's DONE
pack up surround sound DONE
laundry DONE
watch ebay auction :lol: (had to list this or i'd forget) DONE
mail bills DONE
return surround sound DONE
Go to Walmart for: DONE
-small feeding bowls
-divided feeding bowls
-apples
-peaches
-water
-milk
-toothpaste



Today's list:

Vaccum
Dishes/clean kitchen
put new highchair tray together and put in closet
move couch
move love seat
move pack n play
decide on coffee table
deposit Kevin's check
drop off goodwill stuff
unpack new surround sound

[AahRee]

Wow... I'm so impressed at how much everyone is getting done! :biggrin: Carla, good luck at your ultrasound today! :biggrin: Are you planning to find out your baby's gender?

I accomplished my list for yesterday! It was just calling the Title Company, and I did that. :)

My list for today is:
Mail packages!!! (must do!)
Finish mortgage paperwork
Clean out linen closet (basically, throw away the stuff I don't want to hassle moving)
Take Katie to play at the Y

[redhairedgirl]

I'm so proud of myself, the last two days, I have put in complete exercise sessions every single morning! :woo: I have my HS reunion coming up in June, and I need to get my butt in gear! I know it's foolish and pathetic that I feel the need to impress these people.... but hey, it motivates me. :lol:

I also have already completed most of my "reminder list". I still need to call insurance and get info about dentists..... ugh. And I really can't put that one off... I have braces and I have to keep my teeth cleaned. :order:

Hope everyone has a great day! We are also having a snow day, so any errands that were to be run I've cancelled. Not for fear of the snow... I don't mind driving in it, it's just too much a hassle getting Aiden ready, and all that crap!

Mandy

[JillMelissa]

I'm so proud of my productivity today! During Emily's morning nap I took a shower, got dressed, and then folded and put away two loads of laundry. While she was in her highchair eating her veggie chunks, I put away the clean dishes and loaded the dishwasher with the dirty dishes. When she went down for her afternoon nap, I did an exercise video (shocking enough all on its own!) and got dinner cooking in the crockpot. I rule! :lol:

[lexie]

OK... So I have a very busy day if I choose to get out to do it all....

1. I need to go look for a new stroller... I have a Eddie Bauer and the wheels turn in when you are pushing it.... Very annoying!:nono: - Done
2. Go to Sam's and exchange some overalls.... I overestimated the size. - Done
3. Go to the Grocery Store.
4. Go to the Bank. - Done
5. Figure Out what to do for dinner.
So I got 3 out of 5 things done but the day is still young and Lane had to take a nap!:lol:

[Carla]

Anne, they don't tell you here :mad: . It's really hard for me to tell what it is (there are pics in my journal if anyone wants to guess: http://www.onceuponalife.com/showpost.php?p=78097&postcount=234 ). Everything went great.

I woke up and realized that the house was pretty much under control. I don't feel like cleaning the bedroom, but later, I'll probably put some stuff away. I got a load of cloth diapers today, so those were my laundry priority :D . I didn't have enough for a load of anything else anyway for a change. MIL is taking Ethan for the afternoon tommorow, so I'll probably get some stuff done then.

[Michele]

Tomorrow's list (3/16)

1. Buy Scott a birthday present and card - present DONE, card will get on Thurs
2. Buy ingredients for Scott's birthday dinner - DONE
3. Call church about christening for Jackson
4. Call 2 other realtor's for appraisals
5. Call today's realtor if don't hear from him by tomorrow afternoon - DONE
6. Return sweater to Gap, and pants/sweater to Macy's - DONE
7. Walk with Jackson - DONE (2.5 miles)
8. Eat healthy lunch (NO FOOD COURT AT THE MALL!!!) - DONE
So, 5.5 out of 8, not too bad, right? I also did a couple of things that weren't on my list. Namely, make chocolate chip cookies. We will most likely be snowed in tomorrow, so I'll make the calls then.

List for 3/17

1. Call church about christening for Jackson
2. Call 2 other realtors
3. Throw away 27 things
4. Donate 27 things
5. Do Jackson's laundry
6. Do other laundry
7. Wrap Scott's present
8. Get bills in order
9. Walk with Jackson (if possible in snow)
10. Eat a healthy breakfast and lunch

I signed up for Flylady.com today, and there is some interesting stuff on that sight. I tend to balk at hard core routines, so some of it isn't for me, but I do like her de-cluttering ideas, I have tons of stuff I should get rid of.

[JenM]

I also went and subscribed to flylady... but I originally put they could send me individual emails as they come.. Forget that! I ended up with 10 or more in the first day alone! I'd have to schedule more time into my day just to read them and sort through them all :lol:

I have been getting a lot done every day... sorry I haven't been posting here so much... I'm just TOO busy getting things done :lol: I'm exercising almost every day... and making sure I get at least one "big" cleaning chore done every day and still making sure I spend time with my girls. Life is good. I'm so impressed by how well and how much everyone is getting done here!

Goal for tomorrow:

We are mostly snowed in.. so I most likely won't be going anywhere... so I'll plan to:
- exercise
- do an art project with Zoe
- bathe Ellie
- organize Zoe's books into the living room
- finish the laundry I started on Monday :rolleyes:

[~Andrea~]

I signed up too (about a week or so ago). What I did was create a "rule" so anything coming in from them goes straight to a seperate folder. Some I read and some I delete right away.

[AahRee]

Carla, it looks like they did a good job in taking those pictures of making sure that you can't tell. :( I have absolutely no clue, based on those pictures. Is that a liability thing? They're afraid you'll sue if they turn out to be wrong? :dunno:

I didn't get a single thing on my list done today. :blush: However, Katie is going to MIL's tomorrow at 3p.m., and staying the night, so I should be able to get a bit more done tomorrow, and Thursday morning.

Eventhough I didn't get anything on my list done, I *did* watch Sesame Street with Katie, and we took the scenic route home from the bookstore, which means driving past the *horsies*, *moo cows* and *butt-lo* (buffalo). :lol: And hey, that's way more important than paperwork and packages, right? ;)

[AahRee]

Ooops. I totally forgot a list for tomorrow. Okay, it's going to have to be everything on my list from today, PLUS getting my blood drawn tomorrow morning. :dead: Oh, and making brownies for Bible study tomorrow night. (BTW... does this sound yummy, or gross? I have some black raspberry syrup I was thinking of drizzling over the brownies... )

[Cortney]

Today's To-Do List: (it's pretty lame today)

*Go to the MOMs club Erin G'brough today
*check on the cable bill that came yesterday that said it was overdue :scratch:
*do some laundry
*change the sheets on the beds
*finish sewing the summer pjs sitting on my kitchen counter for Morgan
*think of something to make for dinner

[Carla]

Carla, it looks like they did a good job in taking those pictures of making sure that you can't tell. :( I have absolutely no clue, based on those pictures. Is that a liability thing? They're afraid you'll sue if they turn out to be wrong? :dunno:



I'm assuming so, but I'm sure most people would sign a waiver stating they knew they weren't 100%. I mean, is anything in life? BTW, those brownies sound delish!

We got snowed on again, so I'll probably just be home again all day. I really, really hate snow. Pretty bad since I live in Canada and get a lot of it :sad: . I think MIL is still taking Ethan for the afternoon, so I'll tackle the bedrooms then.

My List:
*Bedroom
*Finish diapers and wash another load
*Get some clothes from basement put away
*Dishes
*Figure out some green food for supper. (We're having a pot roast so maybe green salad, green beans and "green" mashed potato? Oh, and green jello for dessert with green tinted whipped cream :thumbsup: ) ok, that one was easy!!

[magoo]

I was completely useless yesterday... well, other than playing with Anna all day, but I was useless during her nap. I didn't have a list, and nothing got done :blue: So, today, a list :) I have Daniel today, so I'll work away on it the best I can.

1. fold and put away diapers
2. wash Anna's towels, fold and put away
3. cut liners for diapers
4. dishes!!!!!

Daniel's here. That list will have to do :)
Sarah


Anne ~ I think that rasberry syrup sounds yummy! :)

[JillMelissa]

Anne, I think that raspberry syrup sounds yummy too!

My list for today:

~ Go to post office to mail Ebay package
~ Call builder's office re - deposit check
~ Clean up the kitchen
~ Maybe work on my HS scrapbook (trying to get all the pictures in an album so I can get rid of the big bulky photo albums they're currently in)
~ Exercise tape during Emily's nap!

[~Jenn]

I'm really late as well!

1) What is your name and family stats? (babies names, ages, etc...)
My name is Jenn, and I have two daughters: Rory is 2 and Teagan is 11 months.
2) How long have you been a SAHM?
Almost 2.5 years, I guess...since October 26, 2001.
3) What did you do before this wonderful new job?
I worked for our Federal Government, dealing with disability pensions.
4) What are your priorities for each day?
My girls, myself, my Dh and the house.
Where do you feel you need the most help with motivation in getting things done each day?
Definetly the house stuff! I could 'forget' about that stuff all day!
5) What do you hope to get out of this journal?
Some accountability for me, some new friends and maybe some ideas on what to do with our days (not that they're boring, just some different stuff!)

[~Jenn]

I thought I'd quickly post my list for tomorrow...we're going out in the afternoon for the rest of the day, so it's not going to be a terribly productive list, but, well...

1) Do the load of laundry that's ready to be done...wash, dry, fold AND put away!
2) Get the girls and I ready to leave for when Dh has to leave so that we can drive in together, without forgetting anything!
3) Have a good, enjoyable day out (I've been finding that hard lately with a 2 year old! :lol: )!

I wish I had found this earlier...I was SO productive today, it almost scared me! :lol:

I'm not always good at checking in, so doubt I'll do it everyday, but I hope to at least post a list a couple of times a week, because I need the accoutability...it helps me SO much!

[JenM]

Well... I got three out of five things done... I exercised... bathed Ellie and did THREE art projects with Zoe :) Somehow, organizing the books and finishing the laundry that I started on MONDAY got moved to tomorrow :blush: How is it it takes me ALL week sometimes just to get laundry done? Sigh. Oh well. I am getting lots of other things done around the house that I'm not actually making lists for... so that's good at least :)

Tomorrow... hmmm... Dare I say I'll finish the laundry again? And the books get moved there as well. I'll need to exercise again... And... lets see... I think that's all I'll put down and we'll see if I get that stuff done.

[Michele]

List for 3/17

1. Call church about christening for Jackson TOMORROW
2. Call 2 other realtors TOMORROW
3. Throw away 27 things THIS WEEKEND
4. Donate 27 things THIS WEEKEND
5. Do Jackson's laundry DONE
6. Do other laundry DONE
7. Wrap Scott's present DONE
8. Get bills in order THIS WEEKEND
9. Walk with Jackson (if possible in snow) DONE
10. Eat a healthy breakfast and lunch DONE

So only 5/10 today...whoops! I did get some other stuff done, but I keep procrastinating the calls...

1. Call church re: christening
2. Call other realtors
3. Clean kitchen
4. List Ebay items
5. Make Scott's birthday cake
6. Get Scott's birthday card
7. Get Scott one more small present
8. Exercise
9. Eat healthy breakfast and lunch

[Carla]

NAK...I got some of my stuff done.

Today:
Bring stuff to salvation army
Look for more stuff to get rid of
pack (we're going away overnight tommorow)
finish laundry
tidy the house

Can't think of anything else.

[lexie]

OK.... Today I have alot to do and don't know if I even want to do any of it!

1. Go to Walmart to get my friend Rachelle's little girl a Birthday present for her 1st Birthday.
2. Go look at entertainment centers for living room since we are getting rid of our Big Screen.
3. Do Lane's Laundry.
4. Actually cook Dinner.

[Carla]

My gosh, I got started on laundry and didn't realize how much there was! I'm on my 5th load and I have enough for another load or two :eek: . Laundry is a monster who hides until it's out of control :lol: . Of course I'm also washing winter coats and we found some undone laundry from who knows when. Oy, it's never ending!

[lexie]

OK.... Today I have alot to do and don't know if I even want to do any of it!

1. Go to Walmart to get my friend Rachelle's little girl a Birthday present for her 1st Birthday. -Done
2. Go look at entertainment centers for living room since we are getting rid of our Big Screen. -Done
3. Do Lane's Laundry. -Done
4. Actually cook Dinner.-Done
I am DONE!:rahrah: I hope you all are having a good Day!!!!!:clap:

[Carla]

Today:
Bring stuff to salvation army Done
Look for more stuff to get rid of Done
pack (we're going away overnight tommorow) Done
finish laundry Done
tidy the house Done (well, almost)



I did pretty good! We didn't bring all our stuff to the salvation army, about 7 garbage bags. I've been getting rid of a lot of stuff. We live in so much clutter and I'm tired of it!!! I'm going to finish tidying up when Ethan goes to bed, if he ever does (it's 11:30pm and he's still wired :tearhair: ).

I'm not really planning anything for tommorow since we're going away, same for Saturday. I'm just going to try and leave the house semi-clean.

[Dawn]

Hi girls, I'm here! Ack!....I just posted and I lost my post! ::tearhair: I had alot to say and I lost it all!

Anyway, I'll do my best to respost what I had to say sometime tomorrow and I'll also "check in"! See ya tomorrow! :)

[AahRee]

I wound up not having time to make the brownies yesterday, so I bought a black&white cake at the store. It was SOOOO good! :biggrin: We'll have to have brownies some other day!

I FINALLY managed to mail off all the packages I needed to mail, so I'm caught up with that. Whew!

My list for tomorrow is:
~ Find something to spend my Gymbucks on. :biggrin:
~ Return library books
~ Pack linen closet
~ Bathe Katie
~ Call doctors (mine and Katie's) for appointments

[lexie]

I am DONE!:rahrah: I hope you all are having a good Day!!!!!:clap:
Ok... We got our new TV stand and TV! My friend who is buying the Big Screen in coming tomorrow night to pick it up! We live in a apartment and it looks so much better to not have that huge black old monster in my living room anymore!:supergrin After the last week... I am not doing anything manana. Hope everyone had a good one!

[JenM]

Lexie, now that we have a big screen I don't think we could ever go back to a regular size! :lol:

Cortney... so you go to the MOMs groups??? How IS that? There is a group relatively close to me... but I'm not sure I could actually ADD MORE commitments to my schedule unless it was really worth it.

Well.... I did NOT get my laundry or those books done. Looking back on the day... I don't know WHAT I got accomplished! Not much, that's for sure. I did exercise and make dinner :blush: AND took my nap. I almost feel guilty about napping these days... But I sort of figure until Ellie is sleeping through the night, it's my right :) Zoe had me up by 5:30 this morning... Groan. I am SUPPOSED to go see a client today... (I've decided to take on 3 clients again... all on Friday mornings... we'll see how that goes)... BUT.... we are supposed to have snow again this morning and schools around here are already closing. SO, I may not have a baby sitter to run out and do it. We'll see what happens with that now.

[lexie]

Our big screen was so old! The color was off and it was just old! That is all I can say. The new set up looks so much better! My DH even likes it! I didn't think he would because it is a smaller TV, his exact words were "This looks fresh!" He went back to the 80's I think.:supergrin I am not soing anything today.... Watching my soaps and keeping the house picked up! I haven't watched AMC in a week!

[Michele]

List for 3/18

1. Call church re: christening TOMORROW
2. Call other realtors DONE
3. Clean kitchen DONE
4. List Ebay items THIS WEEKEND
5. Make Scott's birthday cake DONE
6. Get Scott's birthday card DONE
7. Get Scott one more small present DONE
8. Exercise DONE
9. Eat healthy breakfast and lunch DONE
I did a little better with this yesterday. I swear I am calling the church today. I am really enjoying this journal. I feel more productive this week than I have in a long time...

List for 3/19

1. CALL CHURCH
2. Give Jackson a bath
3. Laundry
4. Make dinner
5. Exercise
6. Eat healthy breakfast and lunch
7. Update resume/write cover letter
8. Research flower show for this weekend

[Michele]

I signed up too (about a week or so ago). What I did was create a "rule" so anything coming in from them goes straight to a seperate folder. Some I read and some I delete right away.
I copied your idea and did the same thing. I really like some of her ideas, but some aren't for me. I can't stand wearing shoes at home, so I definitely don't follow that one. I have started a bedtime routine, and a morning routine I like that. Especially the morning routine. For a while I was going back to bed after DH left for work, now I get up and unload the dishwasher, exercise, shower, check emails, and eat breakfast. It gives me more "me" time and makes me feel like less of a slug...

[redhairedgirl]

I copied your idea and did the same thing. I really like some of her ideas, but some aren't for me. I can't stand wearing shoes at home, so I definitely don't follow that one. I have started a bedtime routine, and a morning routine I like that. Especially the morning routine. For a while I was going back to bed after DH left for work, now I get up and unload the dishwasher, exercise, shower, check emails, and eat breakfast. It gives me more "me" time and makes me feel like less of a slug...
This is what I did! I started to REALLY commit myself to exercising as my morning routine. In fact, I exercise in my pajama pants and a cami top. I will NOT brush my teeth or get dressed until I have done my exercises! (Yeah, god forbid someone appears at the door before I'm ready for them. :rotflmao: )

And I am proud that I have STUCK with my two goals I made for myself this week
1) To not eat in the evenings after dinner (A HUGE downfall)
and
2) To exercise every day during the week, atleast. :woo:

I cleaned on Wednesday, and just picked up more stuff yesterday. Aside from my coffee table being a mess, I am completely on top of everything this week! :rahrah: I try to do all I need to during the week so we can lounge around and have fun during the weekend.
In fact, I think I'm going to take DS out and we'll go window shopping (one of my most favorite pasttimes...) It's not a bad day, kind of chilly, but I'm going to take advantage of some of this sunshine!

Hope everyone has a great weekend!

Mandy

[SarahK]

Well, my MIL is gone, so I'm back online! :woo:

Here's my list for today...
~work on embroidery for Katie's baptism gown
~give Katie a bath
~start laundry

[Dawn]

Ok.....I finally get a chance to "check in". Again, I posted all this yesterday but lost it all! Sorry I came here so late girls, I'm here on and off. Oh, and I also wanted to be sure I read every post in here, too. :)


1) What is your name and family stats? (babies names, ages, etc...)
My name is Dawn (will be 31 in April), DH is James (31), 1 daughter Alexia Marie (2 yr. old in 5 days :tear: )

2) How long have you been a SAHM?
1 month before Alexia was born so a little over 2 yrs.

3) What did you do before this wonderful new job?
I was an Exec. Asst. for the nation's largest waste industry company.

4) What are your priorities for each day?
Alexia, Dh, the house

Where do you feel you need the most help with motivation in getting things done each day?
~I definately must put more of an effort in doing things for myself more. Even if it means taking out the time in sitting down, doing nothing and just reading a magazine! I sometimes put my own needs last, and I know that's not good. I just always put DH and Alexia before me.
~I also need more motivation to stop procrastinating with anything that has to be done concerning paper (like filing,), and phonecalls. I'm a real bad procrastinator when it comes to those things...and it usually winds up that it builds up which gives me more to do. Then when that happens, I start feeling too overwhelmed and i don't do any of it! Not good!
5) What do you hope to get out of this journal?
To hang with my fellow SAHM friends and to meet new ones. :) Oh, and for adult interaction too.


Just a couple things I wanted to add. .....

I wanted to give a :bighug: to Ann (AahRee) and also to Anne (TtownAnne). Anne: I also agree with Hilary....maybe try having DH watch her at the house first several times. It will be an easier environment to start getting use to "just her and Daddy" time. :)

Jen ~ Yes.....I do have a scedule sort of. About 2 mos. ago I decided to have a "better" schedule for my days (if anyone else is also interested in reading what I've recently started doing for myself....go ahead. :) ). I got myself a steno notebook and this is where I write and keep track of things I have to do (i actually have it broken down: places to go, things to do, phone calls/emails to make). This helped me look at things 'straight on' & it made it easier for me to see what has to be done vs. what I already done. However, I don't keep a DAILY list....that list is weekly. I do that because there are days that I just don't feel like doing NADA and maybe I"m feeling in a funk....so if I did have a daily to-do list I didn't want to be disappointed in myself if it didn't get done that day. Also, because I'm a huge procrastinator, I basically give