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Happy Friday and welcome to one of our favourite posts of the week – best & worst. It’s time to reflect on what’s happened during your week – the good, the bad and the in-between. There are no “rules” – just join in and tell us about your highs and lows.
Remember that if you want a chance to host best and worst, email info@mamamia.com.au with your full name, headshot and a short bio (include any links to your blog/Twitter etc), and we’ll take it from there.
Introducing Lara…
Worst: Being proved wrong by a 10 month old child. My baby son is the youngest of three, following two cautiously raised girls. From the moment the ultrasound indicated blue skies ahead, people started warning me that boys are different. “Pfft!” said I. “I laugh in the face of your naïve gender distinctions!” And then he ate a huntsman spider. Oh yes he did. And then he spent 24 hours with an inexplicably swollen ear that made him look like a baby-faced boxer. And then he bit his tongue through the night, causing me to age five years when I woke to a blood-soaked cot. And yes, this was all in the past week. I concede defeat; boys are different. Or, at least, my son is different from my daughters. I can only pray that eventually he uses his ebullience and curiosity for good rather than evil; or that we can get a tidy TV deal for our version of Boy vs Wild.
Best: My 20 year school reunion. Not the reunion as such, since that happened ages ago and left me feeling a bit weirded out, if I’m honest, despite careful planning and the requisite pre-reunion therapy. No, it’s the legacy of said event that has made me happy this week, including renewed friendships with some very inspiring individuals. A group of us, who were never in the same ‘gang’ at school, has discovered that as thirty-something workers, parents, partners, wise souls and lost souls, we have a lot to offer each other. We mostly chatter online, and I can guarantee that if, for example, my son eats a large, hairy spider, I can vent my irrational (though in this case, I think, forgivable) concerns to a kind set of ears that won’t judge me. Well, not to my face at least. How curious it is that the newest technology can facilitate the oldest kind of cup-of-tea-over-the-back-fence conversations?
OMM (On My Mind): “Life has no remote control. Get up and change it yourself”. I have no idea who first said this, but it amuses me that the tone is a more ‘boot camp’ than ‘chicken soup’ for the soul. Sometimes I think I need that.
Dr Lara Cain Gray is an academic, writer, librarian, curator and mother. The order depends on the day. Whenever she can she blogs here, tweets here and Facebooks (is that a verb?) here.
What were your best and worst bits of the week?
Comments
327 Comments so far
Best: What was originally an 8 hours a week job, which became 16 hours a week, may shortly become a 24 hours a week job, going across the two offices.
Best 2: Celebrated 5 years with the bf earlier in the week.
Worst: So much uni, ack!
OMM: Boss got us a table at an annual industry ball that is 2 Fridays from now…black tie, what on earth will I wear? It’s going to be hard to find something nice (that fits) in such a small time-frame…not a big problem in the grand scheme of life, but I’ve never been invited to something like this before and I want to make the most of it!
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What’s your style, Shannon? I know it’s not up everyone’s alley but Wheels & Dollbaby do some gorgeous black tie dresses. Quite expensive but gosh they’re beautiful. xx
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Go trawling at Chermside – preferably on a weekday so there’s not so many people! Good luck!
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Try second hand shops and vinnies etc, the good ones can have amazing clothes, many not even worn. You can get some great outfits.
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Shannon-If you feel like a trip to the GC, there is a Lisa Ho outlet at Harbour Town with amazeballs dresses and pretty well priced too! Otherwise Forever New at DFO is your friend…I have snagged serious bargains there and they have lovely flowy dresses. Good luck! xxxx
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Are you in Melb? If so, Rock on the Hill in Richmond has never failed me yet
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Best: Reading Fifty Shades of Grey. Oh my.
Best #2: The cold weather. Absolutely love it. I dress so much better in winter! Also love going for a walk at like 5pm, it’s so crisp and beautiful.
No worsts this week, just happy with my life and how much progress I’m making with little things like learning to have confidence in myself!
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learning to have confidence in yourself is no little thing, it’s awesome and potentially huge. Great work!
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I found it interesting reading an interview with Cameron Diaz recently that she is really loving getting oolder and looking forward to being 40. I had exactly the same attitude and had always enjoyed what each new year brought to my life. I have to say though, since I turned 40 in July 2011, I had a missed miscarriage (and ensuing d&c), I had an arthroscopy on my torn medial meniscus in my knee, I am now having to re-do root canal treatment due to infection and am really not looking forward to the optemetrist appointment next week! I can’t wait to be 41 just in the hope that being 40 was an anomoly………..
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Worst: The boyfriend had to travel for business, so I got about six hours sleep over the two nights he was gone. Sitting bolt upright in bed at 3am with the light on and a chair against the door is not very enjoyable when I have a full-on day of work the next day. I was even too scared to go upstairs and grab my laptop or a book so that I actually had something to do. Sigh.
Best: He came home! I was like an excited puppy, running to the door to meet him. Nothing better than having him home. And not just because he will protect me from the baddies; because he is the most amazing person on the planet.
OMM: Money, money, money. There is just never enough.
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Why couldn’t you sleep? You were afraid of sleeping alone?
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I hate, hate, hate two story places. You never know what or who is happening out of your sight. Fully understand your fears.
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Yeah, I just get so scared that someone is going to sneak into my house, torture me, kill me and cut me up into little pieces.
I talked about it a bit on one of the other posts (it’s really had a massive impact on my week!), but I was in a house when I was younger and it got robbed while I was sleeping about a metre away and not long after I found a stranger in my backyard when I was home alone.
By this point, is in an irrational fear, and no matter how much I try to tell myself it’s fine, I still wake up filled with panic about half an hour later.
I don’t know how to fix it! Any advice would be very welcome.
And I agree a entirely about the two-storey house thing, hms.
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I have this same problem! I’m kind of glad I’m not the only one!
My solution is sleep with a light on in another room (but that isn’t too bright in the bedroom), put the tv on a timer so it’s still on when I’m falling asleep, and let the dog sleep inside. I’m convinced I’m going to be murdered slowly and painfully (although murder is probably always painful) in my bed, and I hate having my husband away for so long! (it’s been 7 weeks, 5 to go).
I still don’t sleep really well, but it’s helping!
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I have a similar fear… seems so silly but can’t help it. I used to prop brooms and pots/pans against doors and near windowns. I figured if someone broke in they would knock the brooms etc over making a loud noise giving me enough time to call the police and lock myself in the bathroom.
Wow…. I have really over thought this!
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Leave the lights on in the other rooms. How about also getting a dog? Anything really that makes you feel secure in your home.
I used to have horrendous nightmares, well actually all my life i’ve had them, even now. But one night (so embarassing) I must have had a bad dream and I truly thought there was someone in the house and I called the police! Next thing you know the swat team (or the local equivalent) were at my house! Seriously, about 10 police in special outfits ran through the house….
I was so incredibly embarassed……felt soooo bad.
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Thanks for all the advice guys! And it’s also good to know I’m not completely insane and alone in these fears.
I do sometimes leave lights on and things like that, but I would like to find out there’s anything that would be a more permanent fix.
Unfortunately we rent, so no guard dogs for now though
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When my partner first started going away, I was just like this but you get used to it. I used to leave the keys in the car (irrational, I know) because I thought they might steal that and leave me and the kids alone.
Weirdest thing is: men are not like this, if we go away. Unless “I can’t sleep, I miss you” is just a cover story!!
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Wow you’re a great writer Lara.
Best: Yoga on Monday nights. Love it! Keeps me sane for the rest of the week.
Worst: The freezing cold. Winter has arrived in Melbourne and it aint pretty!
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Thanks very much Simone
I love cold weather myself, but maybe that’s cos I live in Brisbane where I only get to wear stylish boots and jackets about twice a year. Here chilly weather becomes an occasion!
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Best: It appears the spasmodic freelance writing I do will become more regular meaning I might be able to fathom to possibility of quitting my job (currently on mat leave) and never have to put my life and kids behind a chauventisic & arrogant boss who has strong opinionated women and anger management issues. And we may have secured a second vehicle for our family which will make life SO much easier.
Worst: As always, juggling money from one week to the next but the best above (both of them) should begin to improve that situation.
OMM: Friends. And their cathartic phone calls. Have had some pearlers this week with a couple of girlfriends who have totally let me vent and whinge and verge on tears and I don’t think they’ll ever know just how good they have made me feel post-call.
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Best – It was 35 degrees here today! I couldn’t believe it, we have been having 14, 15 degree weather and suddenly BAM! Went for a nice long walk with the husband but then the thunderstorms started, luckily we got home just in time!
Potential best – I say potential because it has happened yet but I’m kind of hoping it will, I say kind of because I’m not 100% sure yet if I actually do want it to happen….Uh ok better explain so as most of you know my husband and I are in America and have now been here for over a year. The place we are staying in now is an apartment complex, our apartment is spacious enough for 2 people although I would love a bigger kitchen but hey, it is also in a nice and safe area (some BAD areas here!) and has a gym for the residents and underground parking (great for her seeing as it snows in winter here). And it is a gated community again the safety point.
The downside of the place is firstly the management are hopeless and are of no help! The other day they handed my husband a package for us that had been sitting in their office for 3 weeks!
They also charge rent through the nose seeing as they are one of the only apartment complexes in the area that allow you to have your own washer and dryer in your unit, other places require you to share a washer and dryer with other residents, like a coin operated laundry! The walls are also paper thin, we live on the 2nd floor and can hear people walking above us all the time, people coughing at 2am and we have had rude notes left on our door from people claiming we play our music too loud!
Anyway our lease ends at the end of March and we really want to move to a new place, we have looked around and finally we found something. It is another apartment located in a great area (better than the one we are in now), it is slightly bigger than the one we are in currently, and better quality fittings, all hardwood floors, as compared to carpet now (was worried about this at first because of cold winters but have been assured it’s fine).
The greatest thing about it is the location, our backyard would literally be a river which flows right behind the house (it has a balcony from which you can enjoy the views) and plenty of lush green parkland and walking trails around, also 5 mins walk to downtown shops, restaurants, bars etc and a farmers market every weekend.
BUT no underground parking, only one carport space and one space in the open (not so great for the winter but have time for that since going to summer here) and no gym (husband cares more about this than me, but there is a gym 5mins drive away…so hmmm).
Anyway then comes the cost, our rent for where we are now would increase if we stayed here but would still be slightly cheaper than if we moved. Plus the tenants at the new place are asking for a 18 month lease, which not so happy about (we said we were willing to pay $100 less rent a month than what they were asking, which is fair enough considering their mortgage would be less than half of what they are asking for rent!)
Ahhh ok that was a long post and hopefully made sense…. so yeh just weighing up the pros and cons but like I said we haven’t even been offered the new place so maybe no point dwelling.
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Ahh I mean our lease ends end of May! Sorry for the typos it’s past midnight here!
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Hoping it all works out for you!
Everytime we drive past our new street (from there its another 10mins to our current place!) I wish we were moving this summer! I don’t want to wait until August!
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Thanks! I’m still not 100% decided in my mind of what I want to happen, I think I’m still getting over the whole move from back home….dreading boxing things up again and packing unpacking etc I think lol! Still traumatised hehe, but we’ll see what happens.
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We haven’t managed to amass too much stuff as we came with our clothes and instruments, so it shouldn’t be too bad…I hope…
The one I am dreading is the return home and ceremonial unpacking of the storage yard – so crammed and unorganised given our rush to move! Pretty sure I’m willing to take out a second mortgage to pay to have someone else deal with that one!
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Ahhh don’t remind me! Like I said still feel like I’m not over that whole situation. Our stuff back home is all over the place, my parent’s house, his parent’s house, his grandma’s house! Omg Unpacking ALL THAT would definitely be a nightmare
Anyway I’m off to bed, falling asleep on the couch over here lol
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Best: Relaxing at home the past few days, getting plenty of kitten cuddles and finished reading a few books. Plus started making lists of everything that needs doing before bubs arrives
Worst: 16 weeks pregnant today and my body marked the milestone by letting me know that morning sickness is still happening! Hopefully it subsides soon!
OMM: my first appointment with the obstetrician next week. Worried about the letter I got confirming my appointment, I think I’m booked for the wrong type of clinic, as it says to bring baby vaccination records with me. Erm, I haven’t had it yet! Will call them this afternoon to confirm.
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Best: Had a fantastic weekend in the Hunter Valley! So much great food, wine and company.
Best 2: Found some amazing boots today:)
Best 3: The Zoe Foster no-makeup article – was so great to see so many beautiful women!
OMM: I applied for an amazing job and I haven’t heard back. This job would be the perfect piece in my career puzzle. It’s a long stretch but I just wish they would call.
No worsts this week but there has been so much sadness in the news, I am thinking of them all.
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Ditto on Zoe Foster’s no make up article. I loved it.
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Me too. I have to say that I sometimes find Zoe’s articles a little flippant, but then I guess she is writing about make-up. But I thought the make-up free article was great, a real change from her normal style and I really enjoyed it
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I love your work! More more more on MM please. I outsourced the children and loftily thought “Today I will write my novel.” Of course I didn’t think I would finish it, but I did think I would write more words than I did. Let’s call it a work in progress. Sorry I can’t stick to the format, but I just got very excited to see Lara on MM, and it has made me laugh as always, which was a welcome break from staring at my computer screen.
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Wow, a novel! That is seriously ambitious with little people around. May you have many more opportunities to outsource the offspring (I mean that in a nice way) because I would love to read your book. Glad I could provide a little diversion
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Ambitious, foolish, overly optimistic, take your pick. I think I should change it from “a work in progress” to “a life’s work”….Have a great weekend. x
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I just wanted to say to Lara how much I enjoyed reading your Best and Worst! Loved it. I cannot BELIEVE your son ate a spider!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! (Sorry, I felt that warranted numerous exclamation marks …)
Happy Friday!
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Thanks very much Bec. Yeah, it’s not one of those ‘precious baby memories’ I’ll be cherishing. Definitely exclamation mark worthy – should have heard me on the night it happened!! (!!!!)
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Hey, Lara, you gotta think of the spider! It probably hated being eaten! Always two sides to every story…
My cat eats huntsmen spiders and because cats can’t digest spider legs, I find piles of sicked-up spider legs in the middle of the floor. Usually the bedroom. On the carpet.
Did your little boy puke up the legs of the spider?
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At the risk of giving people (or myself) nightmares by reliving it, yes I wiped his cheek thinking he had grass or something there and then realised it was a leg! He later made a noise like a cat with a furball and the rest of our hairy visitor landed on the coffee table. Happy days!
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My baby when she was 1 ate two cockroaches… yes two (not on the same day). She must have enjoyed the first one to go back for another. All I saw was her crunching up something brown in her mouth, and then smelt that distinctive cockroach smell… (for any of you who live in Sydney you will know that despite how much you clean there is always a cockroach lurking about)
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I agree with Bec, this has been one of my favourite best and worst I’ve read, you have a great way with words Lara
Hope there are no more spider eating incidents in your house!!!!
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Me too!!
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Best: the taste of Maggie Beer’s Strawberries & Cream ice-cream.
Worst: saw my G.P. following recently extremely stressful working environment. Just needed a ‘break’. She insisted I am depressed & handed me a free packet of anti-depressants. And she came to this conclusion after 2.3 minutes with me. Not depressed, FATIGUED. The medical profession completely frustrate me. Drugs are not always the answer
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It can be so frustrating can’t it. I once went to the GP (temp fill-in as my usual GP was away on holidays) because I had been feeling a bit tired and nauseous after some serious food poisoning. Within 3 minutes of meeting me for the first time she had diagnosed me with anxiety and chronic fatigue syndrome and sent me on my way. I made sure I never went back to her!
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Best: Semester is over…which means its nearly summer! And the Farmers markets start this Saturday…mmm, fresh vegies…
Worst: Its now finals weeks, and my husband has so many tests and papers due, so I’ve been helping him study so much it feels like they are my papers that are due! Just want the semester to be well and truly over, one of his classes has the most unreasonable lecturer and the work never seems to end!
Worst 2: Got excited because it’s supposed to be in the high 20s this week, but coupled with that has been about 90% humidity…I’d take Perth’s 40 and dry over this!! And I’ve been told the July and August are typically very humid…YUCK!!!
Neither best nor worst: A tornado touched down a mile or two off campus…and I was in a rehearsal and missed the whole thing!
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Hey Rach,
What was the weather like over there today? It hit 35 at about 3pm here today but around 10pm the thunder hit and lots of rain, think it’s stopped now…. was slightly humid but not too bad, but yes does get more humid in summer (Oh I miss perth summers!)
Best of luck to your husband for his exams and papers!
Oh and farmers markets fun! Enjoy.
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It was about 30, probably about 70-80% humidity? Gah! I hate it! Never thought I’d miss Perth weather!
Did you hear about our tornado?? Neither did I, until it was over!
Touched down about 4:10pm yesterday. Luckily it wasn’t near us, and we still have our BBQ and chairs!
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No didn’t hear about the tornado but lucky it didn’t hit your area!
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I am wagging work today – taking a mental health day. I need a day of quiet, of not being assaulted by the indignantion of teenage boys (bless their cotton socks, I do love them most of the time). but today, if I’d had to sternly rebuke someone for talking, I might have flung myself out a window.
The upside of this is that I got to take my daughter to school today instead of dropping her at before school care. We had an un-rushed, un-shouty morning. I had time for a snuggle with her in her bed. We made shadow puppets on the wall. She even had time for violin practice! With no tears!
And now it’s raining, it’s finally cold enough for me to wear my Sarah Lund jumper, I’ve been whipping things up in the Thermomix for a couple of hours, and my house smells like the banana bread that’s 15 mins from coming out of the oven. I am sipping a cup of tea, listening to Radio Swiss Jazz and looking at girly blogs and makeup sites.
Happy Friday to all xxx
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your day off sounds bliss enjoy!!! ^_^ mmm yummy banana bread!
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Sounds like a fabulous day, enjoy
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Great post Lara!
Best: Planning on having a really productive weekend this weekend but I made the decision that tonight I am having some serious alone time! Sent the bf to watch footy with his friends and I have planned for a girly movie marathon with plenty of wine and stir-fry noodles! Just what I need at the moment – a chance to do nothing
Worst: Found my motivation lacking this week in almost all areas of my life. Work just doesn’t seem as important as the fact that my holiday is quickly approaching. Exercise is my less inviting when I leave work and its 2 degrees! Food isn’t worth the effort or going shopping!
I need to get over this slump and I think a night off will help.
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Thanks chachi. I enjoyed writing it (a lot more than I enjoyed living through the past week or so of life with my son!). I hope your night off brings clarity and rejuvenation – and no hangover
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Best: Have lined up an interview for something that is, for me, A Really Big Deal.
Worst: I get nervous just thinking about it. I am really quite bad at interviews and public speaking, to the point where I physically shake, my mouth goes dry, I get flustered and my thoughts become muddled. Does anyone have any tips for not being a nervous wreck and making a horrible impression?
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Just try and remember they are just people. I know that sounds weird but really they are no better than you. I find this helps when I have big scary interviews with “powerful” people.
Oh and be really well prepared. Practice some answers to questions they might ask you and try and think of a few experiences you could use to back things up.
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Thanks Cabbagefairy, this is excellent advice. They are just people – so simple but really quite a change in the way I think about it. Cheers.
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Tripitaka, my husband (and before I was married, one of my sisters) helps me with ‘pretend’ interview questions so that I have some lines and answers to common questions rehearsed.
I’ve found them helpful recently for when I get asked why I want the job, why I think I’d be good at it, my strengths and weaknesses, examples of how I handled certain situations when, and so on.
I’ve tried to stay calm and go in expecting nothing – take it as an opportunity for you to learn more about them, not just them learning about you.
My husband insists he got his latest promotion by going in there with the attitude that he already had the job, that they absolutely needed him for the role and he had the skills and experience for it. He was able to back up every question with examples.
When you get into the interview venue, if they offer you a glass of water, it might be a good idea to accept it and have a little sip so your mouth isn’t dry. If you think your hands are going to shake during the interview, discreetly slip them under the table and place them under your legs, or hold on to a portfolio or a folder if you’re taking one in, or else hold on to that glass of water with both hands to try to keep them occupied.
Good luck!
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Thanks for your advice Bunny! Will definitely be doing lots of practice, but might avoid the water, as I’ve had a terrible choking-on-water-during-interview experience in the past, and well…. you can imagine how that went.
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Thanks so much, that is wonderful advice, especially the part about acting as though I like them (which I think I will anyway). It will make my brain and therefore my body behave as though I am in a comfortable, non-threatening situation, rather than a situaion in which I am scared of them. This is very helpful.
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My best and worst are the same this week! I’m very excited to be home and back in routine, but also slightly holiday depressed that it is over! Can’t believe this time last week I was in Las Vegas!
OMM: Allison Baden-Clay. How terribly sad. That poor woman and her poor family. Unimpressed by what is going to turn into a trial by media of the husband. Equally unimpressed people are saying ‘it was him’ because he’s hired lawyers. Because that’s an indication of guilt! I just hope this man doesn’t end up Lindy Chamberlain part 2.
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welcome home! Hope the post travel duldrums don’t hit too hard. I always hated having to go back to a basic routine – little things like having to decided what to eat rather than just eat out.
I know, the whole story is sad and it does appear the public court is already against him. It will be interesting to see how it all pans out. My heart breaks for her family though, and so many other tragedies this week.
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But that’s because most of the time it is the husband/boyfriend. Even when they deny deny and everyone thinks their innocent, it ends up the husband did it.
Also I thought it was interesting how her best friend stated that she wished she’d been able to help her more which was fairly indicative.
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My mother is one of those. Thought he was guilty from the minute she went missing. They live nearby so of cause she knows all the gossip going around about him. Be surprised if any of it is true.
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Wow, that was quick whipper! Seems like you just left and now you’re back already. Time to start planning your next trip?
I haven’t enjoyed the media trial of Allison’s husband either. So wrong for the media to indulge in speculation that could be so hurtful to her husband, daughters and family. When will they ever learn about decency?
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Best: Following on from my B&W 2 weeks ago, I’ve now had my knee reconstruction, and it went really well! Was so super nervous but everythings going to plan, and I’m smashing through the physio trying to improve every day!
Worst: A little bored, and so frustrated that it takes me FOREVER to do anything! Being on crutches is the WORST!
OMM: The poor woman who was hit by the bus in Beecroft earlier this week. Thinking of her family during this horrible time
OMM2: By beautiful flatmate has a date tonight with lots of potential and I hope with all my heart that it goes perfectly, she deserves all the happiness in the world
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Best- Enjoying being 11 weeks (almost!) preg. Feeling great- which is slightly worrying- but just trying to enjoy it. Had a great loving week with husband and enjoying seeing his excitement every day about being a Dad. Also, a girlfriend had her bub early this week and both Mum and Bub are happy and healthy.
Worst- Speaking to a friend who’s first IVF attempt failed. That wasn’t the worst but the fact that it failed is. She is so upset and I just wish there was something I could do to help her. I wish I could make it work. Knowing that next week I will break her heart a little more when we tell her our news is breaking my heart.
OMM- Everything baby! Mostly how I am going to break the news to our friend. I think that as she is husbands friends wife letting husband tell her husband, and then him breaking the news to her gently at an appropriate time will be best. But I feel like I am hiding away from telling her? I just dont want to let her down! Any suggestions?
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Worst: It was my boyfriend’s Pa’s funeral yesterday. We got through it okay (despite the freezing cold and rain, thanks for that Phillip Island) but I know it’s bringing up thoughts of his friend that was killed in February. Poor boy has had a rough year.
Worst 2: busted my finger at netball on Monday night and it’s really reminded me how much I rely on the use of my right hand! Work has been interesting as writing, typing, even using the mouse have been hard! I’m slowly getting movement back into it, but it’s a pretty horrible shade of green at the moment.
Best: I’ve booked the boy and I in to feed the giraffes at the werribee zoo tomorrow – which will hopefully be lots of fun, and a nice change of pace for him after this not so fun week.
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WORST: I am in university jail. I am the type of person that will feel paralysed by the amount of work due so I will procrastinate instead of just getting on with things. I have group submissions due on Monday and I just can’t get my head around the issues. I am speaking to my moots partner at 5 and I am afraid that I will have nothing to discuss.
BEST: I got a Distinction for a massive assignment. Now I only need to get 27 out of 70 to pass the subject. So even if I bugger up the submissions and my moot court presentation, I can probably still pass the subject. Fingers crossed.
OMM: Why girls make it a competition when it comes to men. I know the following is not a revelation but it really sh*ts me when it gets competitive. The guy will like you, your friend, or neither. Nothing you say or do is going to change his mind. I attended a friend’s wedding on Sunday and I had gotten on very well with a friend of the groom when I had met him previously. I kind of had him in the back of my mind, as did another friend of mine. Well, after seeing him again I decided I wasn’t interested. I think he was though as he kept staring at me through the crowd. As soon as my friend saw this, she got a funny look on her face and just about launched herself at his as soon as she got an opportunity. She stuck to him like glue for the rest of the night. She is so annoying.
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OMM: I was at my local supermarket and walked past a beauty stand that had sale stickers, so of course I stopped to have a squizz. I saw a new line of skincare for “women over 25″ (I turned 25 earlier this year). I bought 3 products from the line.
Sigh.
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Worst: being told by our pediatrician that our baby girl is not putting on enough weight. I had so many problems breastfeeding our toddler, had to move her to formula at 3 months and ended up with PND as a result. Before our 2nd baby was born I told myself I would give breasfeeding my best shot and not beat myself up if it didn’t work. Well i was kidding myself – I’m already devastated because I thought it had been going so much better this time. Am now feeding for over an hour, pumping afterwards to try to boost supply, while caring for our toddler. So sad right now as my gut says it’s going to end the same way as last time (but hopefully without the PND!) I know deep down formula is not the end of the world – my toddler is gorgeous, happy, very smart and never sick (yep, totally biased mummy here lol!)
Best: my amazingly supportive hubby and beautiful children.
OMM: do fenugreek tablets really help boost supply? And I really don’t want to get PND again…
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Sorry to hear that Anonymous. Hope you and your baby manage to stay healthy and happy, good to hear that you have lots of support around you.
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neither of mine put on enough weight with my breastmilk alone. I successfully breast and formula fed my first for a year and my second for 4 months so far.
Are you on motilium to increase supply? Fenugreek tablets definitely work. As do lactation cookies (google a recipe)
I comped, so breastfed and then topped up with formula after a feed. Every time I stopped, they lost weight so I’ve accepted that I need the extra.
So if the weight gain is a problem but you enjoy breastfeeding (I’m less fussed by the nutriants side, I just actually like the act of breastfeeding) you could consider comp feeding?
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I totally relate. I stopped breast feeding after 2 weeks of boob school /no weight gain /inverted nipples / no supply / latching problem HELL and I wouldn’t wish it on anyone. Formula was the best thing for my daughter and I under these very trying circumstances. Fenugreek did work, a little, but not a lot.
May the force be with you – trust your judgement.
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I tried fennel seed tea, it did seem to help. Also, looking after yourself, eating well and trying to rest (as much as you can) and trying not to get too stressed, if possible.
I have tried the ABA (Aust Breastfeeding Assoc) helpline before too – I found them really helpful but I know others haven’t as much. Maybe it depends who answers the call, it’s all volunteer staffed. The number is 1800 mum 2 mum.
Good luck!
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Just wanted to add, as per other comments, that whatever happens you are doing your best, which is fantastic. I had to start off with formula after a traumatic birth (severe blood loss) & expressed, but gradually built up to exclusive breastfeeding, luckily. I know it is hard when you so want to breastfeed.
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You are a great mum for caring and trying so much. You’ve done so well getting this far. Please don’t be too hard on yourself if you do switch to formula, your health, your babes health and your toddlers health are the most important thing. Look after you, being aware that you are at risk for pnd is one of the things that can prevent it. I want to give you a big hug, we women can be so hard on ourselves. I’ve seen so many women turn themselves inside out trying to bf. good luck. Xx
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Fenugreek worked for me and the doctor also gave me a prescription for something else that was supposed to boost supply. Sorry but I can’t remember what it was called. So stressful and emotional so my thoughts are with you.
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Domperidone. Take 6/day for 2 weeks then review.
Really an anti nausea drug, but it has the side effect of increasing breastmilk.
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oh big hugs. The thing is you are doing such a fantastic mum by trying everything you can. Comp feeding doesn’t mean you failed at all. Everyone here has made such good suggestions, but be kind to yourself. I loved the bond of breastfeeding so understand wanting to keep that going, and you can still do that if you wish. But you are being such a great mum just by knowing what you need to do. It will work out for the best.
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Don’t beat yourself up. I’ve been where you are. It’s not fun. But with hindsight, the most important thing is to feed your baby, regardless of how. Using formula is not failing. When it takes more time to feed the baby than you spend enjoying the baby, something has to give. Your health is just as important as your baby’s. My boys are 18 and 16 now, and no-one gives a toss how they were fed as babies.
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Some people swear by it. It’s not scientifically proven to be effective yet, but there’s no real harm in trying it. Just make sure that you increase your daily doe until you (and your wee) smell faintly of maple syrup. That’s the therapeutic range. Take blessed thistle with it too. Good luck. Remember your child will not get up at her 21st and thank you for breastfeeding, so don’t beat yourself up if you have to comp feed etc.
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BEST: MY LITTLE MAN HAS TAKEN A DUMMY!! He is 5.5 months old and is a terrible day sleeper have finally got him to take a dummy and he has had two sleeps today, he has been so tired and miserable lately i hope this helps.
My husbands birthday on monday, he is having a family lunch tomorrow am looking forward to it and my brother from cananda is coming next week for a visit
My little ebay business is starting to take off, its exciting
Worst: Nothing at the moment.
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Best: It was my birthday yesterday. I love birthdays. This year has been much more low-key than usual, but it feels richer, more honest, more full of authenticity and love. I feel like I know myself so much better this year and it’s bringing a confidence and security to the smaller celebrations. I know who my favourite people are and they are all spending time with me in some way or another. The presents I have received have been thoughtful and appropriate and it makes me so happy that my loved ones know me so well.
Worst: What worst?
OMM: Getting older…
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happy birthday for yesterday. Thats exactly how I felt on my birthday, just more content. And loved which is always nice
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Yay for birthdays! Happy birthday to you too. Glad you had a nice day in amongst the difficult ones. xx
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Such a nice place for you to be in your life. I was just wondering about you this week as you haven’t posted in a while so glad to hear that all is well. Happy birthday and hope there is many, many more xo
Getting older has been really good for me. Upside = freedom, less anxiety, self-acceptance, more me time. Downside = running out of time to do all the things I want to do.
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Thank you, and you’re so right about getting older.
Nice to hear about how you are going too. Sorry your daughter is still having such a tough time. Sending love xx
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Happy Friday!!! ^_^
Best 1: My brother who designs for a melbourne fashion company (Nana Judy) is closing Sydney Fashion week today! soooooo excited for him and his co-designers!!! such a big thing for a little design company!! really proud of him!
Best 2: just enjoying life and being married and have a few fun social events coming up! Ladies night next friday and then off down south to Bunbury for the weekend with a gf to attend Groovin the Moo the following week so outfit decisions are being made along with hair and makeup ^_^ all the fun stuff of what being a woman is about.
Best 3: My husband got The Slap out on dvd this week to watch and omg just amazing series! i love it! hooked!! ^_^
no worsts except just news stories like Allison Baden Clay body being found and the mum who died with her new baby still in her arms whilst getting hit by a bus just horrible!! makes you realise how lucky you are to wake up everyday and be loved and have amazing people in your life and dont take a second for granted.
Its rainy and beautiful in Perth today! i plan to stay home and chill out this weekend perfect weather for it!
have a great weekend
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I love the name Nana Judy.
I too am enjoying the rain – perfect for curling up on the couch with a glass of red and a DVD!
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Best: Its Friday and for once my house is actually tidy (well, near enough)
Worst: Feel a bit dumb for having spent most of the week completely upset and fuming at someone. Turns out she was innocent/oblivious…ooops. Oh well, thank god I fumed silently..
OMM: going up to the Mt Tomah Food Festival tomorrow. I’m a hungry pregnant lady, it sounds like a good plan.
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My boyfriend beat me up and broke bones.
My Mum ‘broke into’ my house and snuck a vase of flowers next to my bed.
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Gerty that is awful. I hope you are ok. Sounds like you have family support which is important, and I really hope that boyfriend is not around anymore. So hard, I wish you all the best xxx
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Please talk to someone about this and I hope nothing like this ever happens to you again. Take care.
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Oh Gerty I hope that you are no longer near this boyfriend. I hope you are safe and well. hugs to you
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Please tell us you reported it to Police? If not, you absolutely must.
Hope you’re ok… terrible. Stay away from him, and please please please go to police.
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Best: end of the week, and I start a new job on Monday. Excited, bit nervous (job i am leaving has fab conditions I wont ever be able to replace), but I think its for the best. plus weekend coming up so thats always a best!
Worst: none really, except the thought of cleaning my house tomorrow!
OMM: So ridiculous and not serious at all, but what phone to get? I have to hand in my work iphone (so over it and happy to be rid of it – thats a best lol), and now tossing up between samsung galaxy s2 4G or the HTC velocity 4G. Husband has samsung so was going to go different, but in the end I just want a good phone (i use camera, music, calls, net). I wanted to hold out till the HTC One, but who knows when telstra will get it and i need the phone by COB today (as usual, left it right to the last minute)! Anyone have any experience with either, or even another phone?
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I recently made the move from iPhone to the big scary world of Andriod – I was so used to Apple holding my hand! I got a HTC Sensation XE, and will definitely recommend them. While it’s not the Velocity, most of the HTC models have a good rep. Good luck!
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I just found out my sister’s 19 year old dear friend (ex bf and v close friend for many years) died in a car accident yesterday. The crash wasn’t serious, but it wedged the car between a tree and a fence, so when it burst into flames he and the other young men couldn’t get out. They still don’t know how many people were in the car because it’s so burned out. It’s just devastating, and I’m so sad for his family, loving gf, friends and my sister. So tragic. Everyone love their beloved extra hard today
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That accident was on the news – absolutely horrific. I’m so sorry for you and all who have been touched by this. Just tragic.
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My partner R and I went to Kerri Sackville’s book launch this week…not only was it great to see Kerri, but I also got to catch-up with Rick and Nat again…and finally got to meet Lana…and I also got to meet one of my favourite MM writers, Shankari Chandran, who is just as lovely in real-life as you would expect.
I even got an unexpected hug from Mia, but then I remembered she’s a compulsive hugger
(…and thanks Mia for taking time to chat to MissT and I…)
Oh, and apparently it’s also MissT’s birthday today…but please don’t make a fuss about it…she hates attention (not…)
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I got hugged too!! And didn’t get to meet Lana. But it was lovely to see Rick, Nat, Ella & meet Shankari!
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AND Rick hugged me! I even told him he didn’t have to, but he did anyway. So lovely
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I think Rick’s like me…he’s given up not being hugged by you
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I think I was the only person who didn’t get to meet Shankari! Cranky. Was lovely to see you all
AND HAPPY BIRTHDAY MISS T!!!!!!!!!!!!!
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You all hugged each other? Seriously? Damn, I can’t believe I left early. That knowledge has got to be the absolute worst of my week. The best was watching my daughter score goals at Saturday morning netball (in the correct goalpost) and the second best (are we allowed to have those? I’ve haven’t commented on this page before) was a brilliant Tuesday night with you guys (well some of you, next time all of you).
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And happy birthday Miss T. xxxx
Just once more people: you HUGGED each other? That is so not fair.
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I would so have hugged you, if you hadn’t avoided me. Happy Birthday Tamsin!
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Shankari, I’ll hug you next time!
And thanks Shankari, Rick & Nat. I’m having a wonderful birthday
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I’ll hug you the next time I see you…I promise!
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All this hugging sounds delightful!
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Would you like a hug too, Amelia? Hugs for all!
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Happy birthday!
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Thanks!
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Interesting week or so… after close to 12 years with a property development group I was made redundant last Friday and after a few tense days came to an agreement on termination package last night. The hardest part of it has actually been cleaning up all my personal files (esp photos) off the work computer and server… I have much missed younger sister overseas who now has two kids and in my time here our mum died as well – I have 4 siblings and to say the least there are a few classic moments that were caught on camera in the last decade or so that I have been reliving.
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OMM: My life has become a soapie.
My ex won’t let go, and has been sending massive texts and emails imploring me to give him another go. I went on a speed dating thing on Tuesday night and gave my number to a pilot. We texted a few times and then tells me he isn’t after a relationship, just “fun”. Another guy from speed dating tracked me down at work (!) and has been texting me and I am really not attracted to him, and he is a fair bit younger than me.
Today I got a text from my ex accusing me of being a slut, amongst other things. My mum ended up calling him (she is as sick of the texts/phone calls/obsessive behaviour/suicide threats as I am) and went nuts at him. Apparently he had somehow hacked into my RSVP profile and told her about conversations I had had with guys – there wasn’t even anything suss on there – and that he knew I was seeing a certain one tonight.
I just don’t get guys.
Are there any decent ones out there? Where do I find them?
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Sam, your ex sounds pretty volatile. Take care OK?
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So sorry to hear that you are going through this! Some guys can be jerks (as can some girls too!).
I would personally send him one last text message telling him to not contact you again in any way shape or form, and that if he persists, you will report all calls/texts/emails/hacks/insults to police.
Hopefully that will be enough to get him to back away and realise his actions are not ok. Look after you, because hes clearly looking after him.
Also, there really are decent guys, you just have to look in the right places. I found mine (and I’m keeping him) after going through a long line of jerks and losers.
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I would do as Cait says. he sounds like he is getting a little extreme and if he continues on this track things may get serious. Might be worth contacting police for some advice and assistance if he continues. Be careful!
Ps def fab guys out there. bet he’ll come along when you least expect it:)
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Try the largest police station in your area, they sometimes have staff trained in domestic issues.
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There will always be ‘bad eggs’, don’t write them all off though!
xo
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Hi Sam. Have been seeing your situation progress over the past few weeks on Best and Worst. Sounds quite scary. I like Cait’s idea of one last text and then no more contact EVER or you will go to the police. No matter the circumstances. I know it’s a drag and you shouldn’t have to, but can you change your mobile number somehow? And the hacking into your RSVP profile is concerning – maybe change your password a few times during the next week. And/or at least report it to the RSVP administrators. Again you shouldn’t have to do this but his behaviour is really bordering on stalker-type stuff. Do take care.
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Thanks guys, I will take your advice on board.
I love the Mamamia community!
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I have found that men get very bitter about rejection. Show me a man who is still heartbroken about breaking up and I’ll show you a man who was left by that woman.
You have to cut all contact, including your mum, with your ex. It will only keep getting worse and worse. Are you able to put a block on your phone? He’s actually harassing you now, not good.
About meeting a new guy, give it some time, there’s no rush. I really hope this all gets better for you and soon xx
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I need some advice. My sil just had another failed ivf attempt. I am devastated for them. They would be wonderful parents and it is so sad that it is not happening. They are pretty close to giving up.
I am after some advice of what to do or say. I am pretty good at putting my foot in my mouth so want to be careful with what I say. They live in another city. Would sending flowers be okay just to say we are thinking of them? Any other ideas?
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I think flowers with a ‘thinking of you’ note are the best you can do in the case of miscarriage/failed IVF. They need time to process anyway, and it’s always hard to know the right thing to say. So giving them some space while letting them know you’re thinking of them I think would be really appreciated, and also really hard to ‘take the wrong way’.
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Flowers it is then. Thanks for the help. She is coming to visit at the end of the month for my son’s birthday. I can only imagine how hard that must be for her when she would love to have a bub of her own. I am grateful that she is taking the time to be with our boys. Not the easiest thing to do under the circumstances.
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Flowers would be a lovely thought. Maybe even a gift voucher to a special restaurant or gold class movie tickets to give them some romantic time together, I think if I was in that situation I would be feeling very alone and confused, a great chance to be reminded that they are in it together and that their love can overcome even the most difficult situations. A nice handwritten letter or note would be nice as well, anything thoughtfull would help to ease their pain at the moment, it is very nice of you to be thinking of them.
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I think flowers would be lovely with just a “thinking of you” note. After a failed attempt, it is easy to beat oneself up about it and also downplay it (I often thought I should stop complaining, life could be worse etc) when really the pain is immense. So I found any little gesture was lovely.
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When I had failed IVF attempts I liked reading magazines, as they helped keep my mind off how disappointed I felt. So a few mags or a great book may be an idea too. It is a hard time
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Best 1: Having holidays from work! A whole week (almost – Miss 3 is sick at home today) to myself. So peaceful…
Best 2: Bought a new house on Monday after seeing it on Sunday! After a long drawn out saga of losing a gorgeous acre which was going to have our dream home built, we decided we couldn’t go through it again and have miraculously found a house that has practically everything we want (including age and history! and high ceilings! and a chimney for my son! [he does not want to be a chimney sweep at 5, despite the Welsh background...] and a gazillion bedrooms! and a lovely big yard! and I could on and on!)
Best 3: Having my Ghost article published on MM last week! Couldn’t have been more thrilled and had loads of fun reading everyone’s responses and experiences.
Worst: Miss 3 being sick – she has just recovered from pneumonia five weeks ago and was VERY unwell this morning. Cue emergency trip to the doctor, ready to go to hospital but she seems much better now and is on meds etc so fingers crossed she is only on the improve now.
Have a lovely weekend everyone!
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Thanks for your ghost article, Shaezy. I always like a good ghost story or 3. Your new house sounds very exciting, enjoy!
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Worst: My brother had an accident at work yesterday and is having surgery, and feeling like I cant go and see him because of the ongoing family feud with his partner. Another friend is waiting to find out some serious (life changing) medical news today. Praying with everything (and im not even religious) that everything is fine. It has to be. On top of that, suffering from a major (pathetic) inferiority complex. I hoped by 26 that I would be happy with myself and confident in where and who I am. Not the case. But now I am more annoyed that I am being so selfish and ‘woe is me’ when others around me need me to be strong. Some people have real problems – I just need to get over it!!!
Best: One of my best friends is due to have her baby any day now. I cannot wait to hold him in my arms! She is the sister I never had..
OMM: What am I doing with my life? I need to get my head back in the right head space, but don’t even know where to start. Maybe a big fat cry and a glass of wine – then pull my bloody socks up and get the f*** on with it!!
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Go and see him. If his partner says anything, simply say ‘I think we can put aside our differences for someone we love’.
Then maybe think about doing that permanently, if the damage from the feud isn’t too great.
Best wishes for your friend and brother, it’s hard to be a bystander at times like these.
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Best: Going home to Melbourne tonight.
OMM: Not usually my kind of thing, but last night I did an online personality test. It was so spot on it. Freaked me out a little. Has anyone ever done the Enneagram test?
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I did a Myers-Briggs one recently and it was so true it was scary!
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Just did the Meyer Briggs the other day. It was scarily accurate.
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I think my boyfriend has. He has a book on ‘The wisdom of the enneagram’. Now I’m intrigued!
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Read it! Or just google the test
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Yes! We just did Enneagrams in my Psychology course! So interesting aren’t they? Mine was spot on too. I am very much ruled by my heart…number 2!
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I did it with a few friends and it was spot on for all of us. Freaky. I’m success-oriented and pragmatic… number 3!
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I’m curious Lucy, did you do the free one? Or do you think you have to pay for the good one? Thanks!
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I just did it – I got 6 for the investigator, 5 for loyalist and enthusiast and 4 for 1,3,4 & 8. So it is pretty useless for me!
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Best: Little Man has slept through the night for 9 straight days! Woohoo!
Worst: I’ve got pharyngitis! It knocked me for six and is incredibly painful. Have been trying to limit body contact with Little Man so he doesn’t get it but he must have picked up on it as he has been very needy and commanding all my attention for most of the day, everyday.
OMM: Laziness and jealousy. I am becoming lazier now that I’m on Mat Leave. I love nothing more than staying at home in my pj’s all day everyday. It’s becoming unhealthy I think. Just can’t justify wasting fuel getting out and about. Also feeling jealous and envious of a girl I know. I can’t work out why but everytime she posts something on Facebook I just get that yuck jealous feeling and proceed to stalk her profile. Wtf is wrong with me? Lol I can’t recall ever feeling like this before as I’m not a particularly jealous person…
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nah, enjoy the slower pace of life. It will change. I found it all got a bit too much when you have busy weeks – mothers group, swimming, playdates, shopping. If you need to get out for your sanity thein go, but IMHO there is nothing wrong with the quieter moments.
And I hear you about the jealousy. I have a dear, supportive friend, who buys ipads and kindles. Lives in the inner city in a fancy house. Travels several times a year (business class) with her kid. So jealous. But I figure I can own that jealousy, it isn’t about her. Yes I want that, but I figure she has other things she has to trade off so I just try to be happy with what I’ve got knowing I can only ever change that.
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Hey Sezzard, you sound good which is great. WHat is happening with the ex?
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Hi Louisec, thanks for remembering my somewhat tumultuous posts a month or two ago!!!
Well of course he woke up to himself and came crawling back so we are in the process of sorting things out.
Things have been good but I have a feeling deep down that his childish behaviour is never going to change and as a result I have found myself lying to him (mostly about money, saying I don’t ‘hide’ it when I actually was) however the guilt ate at me and I came clean. Well that didn’t work because he owed his brother a couple of thousand so I handed my stash over, purely to redeem my conscience.
And now that that has happened I feel stupid as i am asking myself the same questions – ‘is this really what I want’ ‘am I truly happier with him’ ‘does he bring out the best in me’ etc. I keep coming up with ‘no’ to all of the above so I guess time will tell what the right outcome is….
But again, thank you for thinking of me!! Xx
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I think this all sounds really good. I know that may seem like a strange thing to say. But you are thinking the right way, how to protect yourself and your baby and looking out for yourself.
That is fantastic and you should be very proud of yourself. To have your partner leave just a few days after giving birth was a hell of a thing to go through. The shock itself was bad enough. It’s hard to imagine going through what you did.
But you’ve coped and come through it and are now, naturally, very savvy. Well done! xxx
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Crappiest week in history, had cash (local and foreign currency) stolen from my purse whilst at a sewing class and my daughters school had a fire last Sunday so we have had a whole week of the school being closed… Extra kids at our house and being ferried around to those parents who don’t work, expensive outings… it has been a week from hell and I am SO looking forward to a fresh start tomorrow
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Worst: I just cant get over the terrible tragedy of the mum who was run over by the school bus in Sydney on Wednesday. Its just so horribly sad.
Best: its a beautiful day!
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Best: Officially been two weeks since I met the boy of my dreams. I’m absolutely loving the butterflies I get from his messages, calls and the way he looks at me. He told me yesterday that he thinks he has seriously found the one
Just thinking of it makes me smile. Its moving at a really really quick pace but I’ve decided that if its meant to be, that’s fine right?
Worst: Friends are just so inconsistent. I just don’t get what some people get from not being happy for their friends.
OMM: I have been in a bit of a lull for a while now on the career front. As you may have read last week, I was really unsure if I wanted to continue with my law degree (fifth year out of six years). When I first left school, I wanted to become a journalist and loved reading the news. After some circumstances, I could not go to CSU to do it and started this law degree. I had a bit of a epiphany this week and think that I could possibly kill two birds with one stone when working for the legal department at News Limited, Fairfax or one of the news stations or something along those lines. Has anyone got any advice as to how to get a foot in the door at any of those places? I know it is really competitive but I think I have truly found my calling!!!! I would seriously scrub the floors for a foot in the door….
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Yay for your best!
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Go and see the careers councellor at your Uni. They usually have some good connections or can put you in contact with someone who can help you getz a cadetship at a media company. It’s hard to get a work experience position as a journalist if you aren’t training in this field as you are competing with other students that are, but if you have a blog that is a good tool to use to grab the attention of companies you might like to get placement with. Also, have you considered studying Journalism at TAFE part-time? You could study your law degree part-time while you do this.
Good luck!
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I think I am totally pathetic at discussing what is on my mind because I think it was directed at being apart of the legal department at one of those places and not a journo
Thanks for your recommendations though!!!!!!!
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Hey Pocket, what about being a legal writer for a newspaper? Or legal reporter for news or current affairs program? You could get in by doing an internship with Fairfax…….. Financial Review or BRW would be great. Plus don’t forget some of the online news/business sites which are really good – Smart Company.com.au; leadingcompanyr.com.au; are a couple.
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Hey Louisec…
How would I go about getting a foot in the door in one of those places?Soooooo difficult
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No it’s not difficult you just need to know how to do it. Where do you live?
Start looking at Fairfax regularly as they often have internships. News Limited too. Don’t forget about local/suburban papers as well. If you are in Sydney or Melbourne apply for internships at the newspapers, magazines or websites.
Also read the legal sections of the Financial REview, The Australian and follow the legal writers of BRW your newspaper etc. When you get to know their writings email them and ask for their advice on how you could become a legal writer. I’m sure they’d be very happy to give you advice and even give you some help getting in.
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Sydney
I just have mapped out where I want to go and I am keen to get it done!
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Best: Feeling my baby kick. I am 23 weeks pregnant, and having a much less eventful (read:scary) pregnancy than I did with my son. This baby is contentedly hanging out, kicking away.
Best #2: My 15 month old is starting to get the hang of sleeping through the night. Not every night. But a lot of nights. After 15 months of problematic sleep and banging-head-against-the-wall moments of wondering why he wouldn’t sleep when it seemed everyone else’s babies are, he seems to be settling. Win.
Worst: Feeling very sad about not hearing from my son’s Godparents. Three are fantastic. Two are totally absent. Even when he got carted off in an ambulance with a severe fever and barely conscious, I heard not a word. Easter passed without so much as an easter egg for him. It doesn’t seem to be a significant honour or responsibility anymore. Wondering if I am even going to bother having Godparents for Bub #2.
OMM: Hospital. I had a terrible experience in hospital when I had my son, which really marred the amazing labour I had. I have told the midwives and my doctor that I want an early discharge, but all seem reluctant and I am annoyed and feeling very disempowered. My ability as a mother keeps being called into question and I don’t understand why. I am hoping I have the guts to tell them all to bugger off.
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I’ll start with my worst: My Little A is sick, was hard watching my usually full of beans boy lying listlessly in our bed. At about 4pm he had a 39.6 deg temp so I took him to the Doc (the one time I get in to see the hot doctor and I have no make up on!!), got some meds and now my boy is on the improve. Thank goodness as we have a pretty busy weekend, which leads to my….
Best: Some girly time!!! Am seeing 5 Year Engagement with a girlfriend tonight, the early session as I turn into a pumpkin around 9 now that I’m pregnant. Then tomorrow we’ve got a BBQ with some friends. Saturday night I’ve got a pizza night at GPK with my Mother’s Group girlfriends – YAY YAY YAY!!! Then on Sunday we’re catching up with more friends at Centennial Park for a picnic. Will be busy but looking forward to it.
Have a great weekend everyone x
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Best: Finished 2 big projects at work, got kudos for both, makes the late nights/early mornings worth it
Worst: A grand old dame passed away on Tuesday. 90 years strong, we will miss her
OMM: Sunday, seeing my guy
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It’s my birthday!!
That is all.
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And a fine day it shall be! Happy birthday fellow taurean!!
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Happy Birthday Miss T!! I hope you have a lovely day.
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Happy birthday! Hope you eat lots of cake!
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Thanks Oopsyboops, InKL & Lucy! Whippersnapper sent me a bucket of chocolates, so I’m munching on them… Mmm…
I would say Om nom nom, but considering how many people said they hate that in the words post I won’t.
Totes ridic.
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A BUCKET of chocolates? Where does one get something like that! Happy birthday Miss T! xxx
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Thank you again! According to the packaging they are from Edible Blooms.
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…I’ve already wished you Happy Birthday online too many times today…
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I love you too
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happy happy bday! Eating cake for you now…. loL:)
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Thanks! Enjoy the cake!
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Aw happy birthday Miss T! By the sounds of that bucket of chocolate, you’ve had a great day
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Happy Birthday MissT
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Best: Busy times, and busy times ahead – enjoying life!
Worst: Bank balance probably lacking a bit – see above.
Groove in the Moo tomorrow!!
On my mind, not much actually!
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Worst – got billed $1600 to replace a part in the car because the handbrake wouldn’t work, drove the car for 2 days and the problem has returned! Fear I’m being taken for a ride by the mechanic. Crying (real tears) about my car to the soccer mums, how embarrassing. Internet down for most of the week with no explanation – might need a new router
Have pantry moths all over the kitchen and house and the traps are taking too long to catch them all! The last 3 petitions I’ve signed, 2 have failed and the other is likely to fail.
Best – my children’s excitement this morning wishing their dad happy birthday. The boys wrapping up household items as ‘gifts’ and his ‘joy’ at receiving a toilet roll wrapped in construction paper!
It’s a sunny day, the week is drawing to a close and there’ll be cake tonight! And champagne … why not?!
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I had an old car that I put in for a service and then suddenly the automatic transmission started leaking, resulting in a $2000 cost to have it replaced.
The mechanic *said* that there had been previous damage by the owner before me and there was a botched repair job that was undetectable until he flushed the transmission and then it started leaking. Second mechanic said that was only believable to some extent and some of the damage had been caused by the first mechanic…..
If I could go back, I would have demanded a second opinion and insisted that it be repaired for free by the first mechanic, or they pay for it to be repaired by a mechanic I trusted. Unfortunately, my experience is that mechanics can be major rip offs, especially if they suspect that you don’t know much about cars.
If you are around Brisbane I can recommend a decent mechanic, but he has gotten more expensive over the years so I stopped going to him before I got rid of my car. He is good, honest and trustworthy, though.
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In Adelaide but thanks for the tip Whippersnapper. With everything electronic these days, even if you are pretty handy with mechanical things the electronic stuff is another level of mystery again. More on Monday.
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I haven’t been online very much since giving birth to my first baby, here goes:
Best: getting first smiles from my baby. Totally lit up my world! I’m excited about celebrating my first Mother’s Day this year.
Worst: Catching a cold and worrying that I might give it to baby.
OMM: visited my padiatrician this week and she said that two things a mother gets with a new baby are mother guilt and worry! The last few weeks I have been feeling the guilt and in a way grieving about not breastfeeding. I had the expectation during my pregnancy that I would breastfeed and this has been a big source of disappointment to me. However, my baby is happy and healthy and I know this is the most important thing.
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Don’t fear the bottle. I was a devotee of breast feeding with my older children. It was difficult but I kept persisting – I have no idea why!
Surprise Baby was straight onto the bottle and thrived. She’s incredibly smart and healthy.
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Completely understand how you feel about breastfeeding. I tried everything with both my boys but it didn’t work. For me it was a huge disappointment but as you say they are happy and healthy and at the end of the day that is all that matters.
Hope you have a wonderful mother’s day.
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I know how you feel, but you are doing the best you can for your baby. I was made to feel horrible by drs and clinic staff about bottle feeding but you should see my little girl now, she is so bright….a little too bright!!
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Thank you for your supportive replies! I was quite lucky that the doctors and nurses I have seen were non-judgmental of the decision to bottle feed. And I know I have done the best for my baby – he is getting enough to eat and is bright-eyed and happy. And I know that having a mother who is not stressing over not being able to feed him sufficiently is really what he needs.
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Best: I wrote, in my opinion, my best article yet for my journalism class at Uni. It was opinion piece and was actually inspired by Bec’s article earlier this week on names. As I have a somewhat unusual name I could draw on my own experiences.
Worst: I dont really have a worst but i did find out my cat prefers to sleep in my brothers bed than mine. Traitor! (I could actually be the fact that my brother has an electric blanket on his bed hence is a bit warmer to sit on than mine.)
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WORST: My best friend just found out that her boyfriend of two years has been cheating on her while he’s overseas… She’s so devastated and I don’t know what to do/say to help her. My heart is broken for her.
BEST: I started Bikram Yoga this week, and although the first two classes were insanely hard, I handled my class last night much better and felt amazing.
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