Friday, May 28, 2010

Jon's Ex Cleared In Break-in, The Gosselins One Year Later, Kate Says Life Is "Not Calmer"

Hello Gosselin fans! It's been a while since I have spoken to you all personally, especially those that don't comment. Can you believe it's been a year since that incredibly uncomfortable Jon & Kate Separate episode? Seems like ages ago. My little site went from a few thousand hits to a mind boggling almost 92,000 hits in a month. And then, after all the mess started to fall by the waste side, I stuck around wondering where to go from here. Do I let them win, or continued to do my best and continue with this blog with has become another child of mine? Well here I am, I got a new look and a new outcome for the future. Not stopping until the hate sites are gone. I hope that those of you that are stopping by from the past and amazed I'm still here stick around awhile. There are many new fan sites out there but the original is still here! xoxoxo

Hailey Glassman Cleared In Jon Gosselin's Apartment Break-In, Case Closed: Radaronline.com

Hailey Glassman is no longer a suspect in the bizarre break in of ex-boyfriend Jon Gosselin's apartment. "The NYPD informed us today that Hailey is no longer a person of interest in the break-in. She feels that the truth has finally come out and the cloud that's been hanging over her head had finally lifted," her lawyer Stephanie Ovadia said. The case has been closed a source close to the investigation confirmed to RadarOnline.com. Hailey Glassman Says Jon Gosselin Staged Apartment Break-In To Claim Insurance Money. Glassman was enraged by the allegation that she broke into Jon's New York City apartment, claiming the former reality star staged it himself in order to claim insurance money.

Jon & Kate Gosselin One Year Since Split: Hollywoodgossip.com

It has now been a year since the marriage of Kate and Jon Gosselin ended. The weeks prior to the tearful, on-air confessionals confirming the split (and garnering record ratings) on Jon & Kate Plus 8 were a train wreck of epic proportions. Rumors of Jon nailing his pal Deanna Hummel were the first to surface. Then Kate and Steve Neild. Then Jon and Hailey Glassman, Stephanie Santoro, and so on.

As their family crumbled under the microscope of celebrity gossip magazines and websites, Kate acknowledges there were difficult moments for their eight kids. "[Nine-year-old daughter Cara] was upset with me because I forgot to sign them up for something at school," Kate tells People in its new cover story this week. "I said, 'Cara, I had a really rough year. This is a new year. You've got to give me that. Let's start over.' So I've really worked to keep my word with them." In general, Kate says, her children – twins Cara and Mady and sextuplets Alexis, Hannah, Leah, Aaden, Collin and Joel – have weathered the storm well. "They're just amazing, resilient, loving kids." The reality TV mom and her children will return to TLC in a new, revamped Kate Plus 8, airing June 6. The family recently filmed the show in Orlando, Fla. There, they also celebrated the sextuplets' sixth birthday. Back home, they also got to see dad ... and were introduced to Jon's new girlfriend Ellen Ross. Hang in there, y'all.

Kate Gosselin: Life is 'not any calmer': USAToday.com

Life with Jon Gosselin, says Kate, "feels like 10 years ago." In the new issue of People magazine, out Friday, Kate, 35, gives an update on how she and her famous 8 are doing. "I'm sorry to disappoint you, but it's not any calmer," she tells People of her custody issues with Jon, 33. "It just appears calmer on the surface … It's just I've had to internalize and keep quiet the rest of the stress. But it bubbles within me and it spills over, and sometimes [the kids] see it."

She says the kids sometimes struggle, too. "Mady said the other night – which every kid of divorce unfortunately is going to say, and I know to expect this – 'I'm always sad. I'm sad when I'm with you because I miss Daddy, and I'm sad when I'm with Daddy because I miss you,'" says Kate, who trades off custody of the kids with Jon at the family's home in Pennsylvania. "I feel bad that they're torn that way. But at the same time, I still know that it's really better overall," she adds. "I've actually overheard them admit, a time or two, that yes, home is more peaceful now. And that's a good thing." She has a tough time finding her own peace, she says. "I don't think I really know how to even relax anymore. Any little shred I had of that is gone."

Especially difficult was the sextuplets' birthday recently on May 10, when Jon took the kids for part of the day. "That hit me hard," she tells People. "Sitting there, thinking, 'Six years ago I gave birth to these babies. I was probably in the NICU right now. And where are they?' That was so hard." She says she's positive about the future. "There are moments when I do see glimpses of what a normal life might be," she says. "And I mean normal in the sense of getting used to this, feeling like I can manage this change." But, she adds, "I'm not there yet."

Looking Back: Jon & Kate Memorial Day Picnic Episode

114 comments:

  1. BabyMama-don't throw it out until you try the lighter fluid!! My mom is a seamstress, she is the one who found out that the Dry Cleaner uses lighter fluid for most stubborn,un-bleachable stains, she has used it for years now.Try it!

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  2. thanks annastasia! I'm going to look into that. I have gotten rid of some beautiful clothes in the past when my kids have gotten marker stains on their clothes!

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  3. Good comment annastasia.

    I am seldom brave enough to buy suede. Seems like everytime I do, be it boots, jacket, shoes, or whatever I'm doomed to rain, snow, or something. I just buy leather I can wipe off because I'm chicken. Or suede impaired, lol.
    -------

    Thanks Baby Mama for fresh paper.

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  4. Storms here. Kids are hanging all over their parents here. Just watching a good old Disney movie.

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  5. Thanks for the fresh paper Baby Mama! It's hard to believe it's been a year.

    Okay off to bed I am beat! Moving Day tomorrow! Thanks for all the prayers and well wishes here, on facebook and twitter! I feel the love! :)

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  6. As a former Coach employee there are things that you learn but are unable to tell a customer as they are not company approved. On suede try to go over the area “gently” with an emery board. It will clean off most of the dirt and still leave the raised appearance of the suede.

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  7. Dee - that's great! Thanks for passing it along.

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  8. I love the picture of the tea party..the little girls look soooo cute. Thanks for the reminder of good times. It is so sad when we think of the some of the bad times this family has experienced this past year. Hoping for a great year ahead for the whole G family.
    So if Hailey didn't do it..I'm afraid to think of who did! Oy Vay, it makes my head & heart hurt just thinking about it.

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  9. Dee~ Thanks so much for the great advice! Will be trying that tonight! I love my patchwork tote. I got it a year or two ago in the pretty purple colors!

    Momsby~ this is one of the times where I actually believe Hailey. The cops think Jon staged the whole thing just to collect on insurance money. Normally I wouldn't beleive this but the whole scene if you remember was so staged with the knife in the note it was almost laughable. I wouldn't put the desperation past him.

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  10. Oh I was hoping you would not say that..it looked like Jon was going to turn things around for the last few weeks, *sighs* Oh Piggle Nuts! That actually could mean criminal charges mischief, fraud, filing a false complaint etc. That is not good news at all, how awful for the kids.

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  11. Sad thing is, it's taken this long to finally close the investigation. Let's hope they don't go after Jon. Apparently he owes Haily money too ($200,000) if you believe her!

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  12. Thank you for the news, Baby Mama.

    I feel sad for these kids while I'm reading this post... Particulary when I read the sentence of Mady said about the fact she is always sad. But, at the same time, I believe that Kate is the only one who can give them stability. Even if I think it's important for Jon to still be here for the birthdays and others important things. I hope the divorce will make these kids stronger...

    I really wish them (Kate, children and Jon too) the best life as possible.

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  13. Ziggy Flo - About your question about my title on the other thread, it's OK to ask. After my divorce and being a SAHM for 10 years, I worked my way through college and have been in the Early Childhood field for over 23 years. Also, raised and sent both kids to college and they are very successful now. I attribute that to the fact that I was the stable parent in their lives, and always made sure their dad got to see them, whether he was behind in support or not!

    So how appropriate it is. Now I provide childcare for kids PT at home. This weekend it's dog sitting!! Then the kids can go up North. Fun! Yah, right! LOL

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  14. Forgot this part. I don't considered myself a Kate Fan, but she was a great organizer and had to be with the 6. Overall, she did the best she could and I think she succeeded. The children are doing fine as far as we know. I sympathize with all single parents out there. You don't realize how hard it really is unless you been through it.

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  15. Tashapork - Have a safe and fun trip. Lol , I'm learning to type on keyboard all over again now with auto correct turned off. Everything us now mt fault completely. I got used to it adding the apostrophe in contractions. I'd rather have it this way. Did you have a hard time learning the keyboard? It is so different with this from Blackberry, etc. When I got my first one, I had to learn to type sideways due to nails. Enjoy your nice long trip!

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  16. What a great day. My swimmers were ready for the pool at 8 am this morning so it was hurry, hurry with breakfast, Mom. The golfers don't leave until 10 so they fussed at having to get up with swimmers. My lone tennis player is sitting at the breakfast table asleep in the chair. Mean ole Mom. I only fix one meal. It's get up now if you want hot food. Sleep in and you fix your own cold cereal. Ahhh...the changes for summer are here.

    We only allow 2 hours a day combined on electronic products (tv, computer, iPod, DS, etc.) after that it's read a book, play a sport, play a board game, etc. I thought 2 hours was pretty generous. Am I being unfair?

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  17. Linda,
    I did not know you has so many children, how many do you have? Must be a fun & crazy house you have. I think 2 hrs is more than generous, we've been trying 1hr total but just moved it up to 2 hrs, for my oldest. The electronic devices just seem to multiply don't they?

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  18. The 1 and only original site :D Least it looks like things are looking up and aww did u read kates blog leah lost a tooth they are growning up soo fact!

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  19. One year oready wow! And I hope this stunt jon has pulled again and blamming hailey wont get him into serious trouble! and thanks 4 the new page baby-mama

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  20. Hello everyone! Hope you all are having a wonderful Memorial Day Weekend. Ive been a bit MIA since my mom and half my family went to the Hamptons this weekend without me. Yes you can smell the anger saturating the pretty Camomile and Lavender still new paper scent. Sorry about that. Getting into a fight with your mom I'm sure you can relate to. It's like hitting your head against the wall. You just have to realize that you are your own little family now and you have to do whats best for them.

    So any how, regarding the e-mail from a reader that asked about Kates relationship with her family. All families go through stupid petty fights. And speaking of family fighting and getting back to Kate Gosselin, no one knows her situation with her family but them. I respect them for keeping things private. If stupid crap like this came out on her we wouldn't hear the end of it. Things would get twisted like they always do. If Kate's relationship with her mom is truly fine, then good for her. These quiet times with her just being a mom and not in the press are the days the haters always seem to forget. Have a great rest of the day, I may have given my Mom such a guilt trip it looks like were packing up for the long congested car ride!

    RIP to Dennis Hopper as well.. He passed from Prostate Cancer today..SO SAD

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  21. Linda I think it's wonderful you only allow 2 hours of electronic time for your children. My first job was for a daycare and I asked the 3 yr olds to find pictures in the clouds and they did not know what I was talking about. It is so important for children to not rely on electronics. We only allow an hour and a half of tv for our daughter, she mainly watches it in the morning while we get ready to tackle the day.

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  22. YAY! Shes got a new entry to her blog up!!

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  23. thanks for letting my know My2girls! Shes even faster with the posts than me now! I should ask her to take over my blog ;)

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  24. Linda l had to practice the keyboard with the notepad but iPod touch and iPhone are truely life changers for me. I am visually impaired and poorly coordinated and I never could text or anything like that. I never thought I would be able to use the portable devices but this one has beautiful contrast and is easy to enlarge print as I do on home computer. The maps and stuff are soo helpful to me. I have never tried a blackberry so this is all very novel and exciting to me and talking with all of you on here is part of what has widened my world.

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  25. My goodness. I think JW got a new computer.

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  26. Hey guys! Its me again...I don't want ot be accused of showing you old stuff lol ;) But these are a few photos of when Kate and the kids were in FL. Looks like they went on one of those cool airboat rides.. Guess we will be seeing alot on fun things June 6th! Now we know why thr kids love to film. Who wouldn't when they get to take cool trips like that!

    http://www.tmz.com/person/kate-gosselin/

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  27. Linda - I think it's great that you limit the usage of electronics to 2 hrs. per day. If its not under control then by the time the teenage years come, it will be constant. I know some parents that let their 15 yr. old text and take calls at the dinner table. OMG, is that rude!

    Good Job!

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  28. That's awesome, Tashapork, that it's working for you. With the other phones I used a stylus. This one uses the heat from your fingers so a stylus doesn't work.

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  29. Momsby I'm never quite sure what to say. So I just say I have multiple sets of multiples. Some are older, some are younger. Not all are living now but they are still my kids.

    Don't need or want sympathy. Bad accident in 2,000. Shattered kneecaps so I got new ones. Rods and screws in shoulder. Damage to C3 in spine so they removed it and put a titanium ring around it. That often leaves you unable to move much. I was determined to walk again and leave the chair. That's why I believe in prayer, hard work and determination. I've done phys therapy every week for a decade. Along the way more surgery and in June, Mayo clinic will decide if there's more to come. My kids call me bionic Mom.

    I didn't want morphine, oxycontin etc in house because of my kids. So I get acupuncture and massage therapy for the knots. But much of the time I can just use a cane or a walker. Really bad days mean the chair.

    But I can walk on good days and that's a blessing. I couldn't do some location shoots so I shifted to research and marketing and some editing. Fortunately we had saved, banked, and invested.

    I guess that's why JW irks me beyond anything. I have nothing against massage therapists but I'm not able to even consider that. But the mind works great and I'm able to use the degrees I earned so that's great. If JW were just talking about me, I could care less. She hurt a client though and terrified my kids. You don't get away with that. Everything is wrapped up and we move forward after surgery if needed again. So probably early fall. I want as much time with my kids as possible this summer.

    I don't talk about this much. Baby Mama has known most of it. I'm going to ask her to probably delete this after Momsby reads it. I don't need sympathy. I am just so grateful for prayer and great neurosurgeons along with a phenomenal hubby and kids.

    So delete away soon, Baby Mama. And thanks for being my friend.

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  30. Caregiver - I adore and marvel at technology. I love conversation and interaction. I insist that dinner be for conversation and family. I think kids need to be encouraged to explore all their talents and not get stuck with just technology. I think of electronics as tools. I guess they get a wee bit more than 2 hours. They watch tv in am before breakfast but it's news only and we discuss it at breakfast. I don't count that because it's about 15 mins.

    In summer one child always helps with meal prep. I treasure that one-on-one time.

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  31. This is a happy blog. Some slugs just want every place to be dirty. Thankyou for your bug and troll removal, Baby Mama.

    I'm fixing decaf mocha latte. Or iced lattes for all if it's as hot in your area as it is here. How many orders shall I fix?

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  32. A huge debt of gratitude to all our military men and women for the sacrifices made for our country. Thank you from a grateful citizen.

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  33. Ahh what a wonderful night! Even though the "flies" are out, I love to have my swatter handy. They are very stupid those pesky flies. They keep coming back where they aren't wanted. One day they will regret that...

    So the speaking of nasty flies. David Zurawik lives to be the biggest hater of them all. I kinda wonder what grugde he has on this family..Are you jealous of the freebies too David? I feel in my heart the poor guy is just latching on to the biggest celebrity he knows of at the moment, just to keep his paycheck at The Baltimore Sun. Which is not in PA, which you would think he would be..Anyway he interviews someone who also needs to keep his paycheck and this is the gem I would like to share..

    "Kids in these kinds of shows are not having a childhood, and you don't have to be a scientist to know what's going to happen to some of them as they get older," says Dr. Michael Brody, a Silver Spring psychiatrist and chairman of the Television and Media Committee of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. "It can be a real disaster for them."

    Disaster? Going to Disney and all the places most kids never get to see is a disaster? Giving them the opportunites most never get is a disaster? Living their lives is a disaster? I cannot get over the sense of entitlement these people have in telling others how to raise their kids. I will be making this a full post next time. But I just wanted to vent about it here.

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  34. WoW, Linda I always new you were very special! Your kids must be very proud to have a bionic mom. I used to just admire you as a poster, now you've inspired me.

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  35. Thanks Momsby, but I'm just a mom first and foremost. I'm very thankful that while we plan for the future, all we have to live is one day at a time. I have kids, hubby and job. While the job part has varied according to physical limitations, I'm thankful to work and to be able to tailor it to needs and abilities.

    Hubby just came and gave me a big hug. I'm so fortunate to have a spouse who loves, cares, encourages and supports the mind, body and spirit.

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  36. Oh, and he made the decaf latte, too. He must have heard me typing about it, lol. You folks missed your chance!

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  37. Something tells me I would really enjoy getting together with you for a latte, Linda. I like strong, compassionate, fiesty women :-) Have a good night.

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  38. Momsby - I wish you were closer. I'd enjoy having you over for latte.

    Wish you could come for dinner, too. I'd planned to grill tonight. Lol. Not to be. Kids took a vote and after the infamous Yum-a-setta for last night's dinner, they want beef bourginon. I'm game. I love it but hate all the chopping, dicing and prep work but the kiddos have promised to help. The recipe makes three meals worth so we freeze two unless friends are coming over. Truthfully, now I just freeze the leftovers - we never know how many we will end up with at the table. I guess it's a carryover from my parents whose philosophy was "If the whole gang is at our house, at least we know where the kids are and what they are doing."

    I was a little sad when the Gosselins moved into their new house. They thought they'd have privacy there. Not only did they not get that, it seems like it's too far away for drop in kids and friends. Sad.

    I adore a neighboirhood where the moms are the moms of everybody's kids and where kids enjoy running in and out of each other's homes.

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  39. Baby Mama - I forgot to say I really like the tea party photo at the top of this thread. That was from last May's trip to Wilmington and Bald Head Island. It looked like they had so much fun. Kate did the Battleship with the boys and the tea party and jewelry making with the girls. So much fun!

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  40. Good morning everyone! Kisses to you Linda. I feel bad I'm the only person that doesn't want to spend all day on the beach. I hate sand and I'm really more of a pool person. I guess thats why no one wants me to go with them..hehe. All I want to do is leave the kids with my husband and go shopping!

    Its beautiful outside! Hope you all come in and say hi this weekend and let me know what your all doing! Currently I'm pissed I'm cleaning sand out of shoes..ugh Summer is almost here! ;)

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  41. I hope everyone has a happy safe Memorial Day.

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  42. Linda, you sound like a wonderful person and the best Mom! All the food you cook sounds wonderful too!!!

    Baby Mama, I'm not doing a whole lot this weekend (only working) because on Thursday we are heading to California, taking my daughter to Disneyland... its our late Memorial Day weekend. Class ended yesterday so we are heading out of town as soon as possible! Everyone on the East Coast enjoy your warm sunny weather cause here in Seattle its been raining for 8 days straight. Today is a sunny but cool, tommorrow the rain starts back up again for 5 days. Hope everyone has a wonderful Memorial Day Weekend, and thanks to EVERYONE who is serving this country, I support you 100%!

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  43. Truth Hurts doesn't it Baby Mama? That David Zurawik's article might just have a point huh?
    You posted there at one time.

    The Kate KypoKrites never cease to amaze me?

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  44. Irene~ you are all shades of hate crazy arent you? Welcome! Thank you so much for giving me such incredible hits to my site this week. Everyone knows what a complete loon you are. Please don't stench up my freshly scented paper will ya? And ohh how DID THAT PROTEST GO?? hahaha

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  45. FYI Thank you for showing what a psycho you are by looking up old posts. Yes I have had many a conversation with David. Why do you care? I hear you are the laughing stock of Facebook. So sorry to hear that your obsession with Kate Gosselin makes my fan site pale in comparison. Tell me, is it the freebies thats getting to ya?

    Thank you for proving my point that haters are completely wayyy to obsessed with my site.

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  46. Wow, long day. Hope everybody had a great one! Sorry Baby Mama, I see the slimekid has been trying again. Could we take up a collection and get her medication?

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  47. Hey BabyMama!
    I absolutely love the new look of your blog!!! The photos of Kate and the kids are so fresh!
    BTW, I still check-in and read the posts when I have some free time usually after my kids go to bed!
    I can't wait for June 6th when Kate plus8 airs!
    Cheers all!
    Enjoy your Memorial Day (for us Canucks, it's back to the office tomorrow!)
    Have a good one, eh?

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  48. Hi Mom of Three,
    Fellow Canuck & Mom of Three here have a great day! (thanks for throwing the eh out there, I've had a very hard time not including it in some of my posts)LOL
    Linda, My mom always said the same thing our house was the hub house. I try to do the same with my own..I've found popsicles in the summer & fresh homade cookies in the winter help:)
    Baby Mama...Have I mentioned lately how much I enjoy you & your kick but site? I heart you, you are one cool Mama!

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  49. Hi Momsby,
    Love your tiny baby bee pic! I couldn't resist the 'eh'today!
    What can I say, we love Kate plus 8 in Canada too!

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  50. Spelling & Grammer police lurkers...I know, I know I should not post when distracted & tired. I'm sorry, feel free to ignore.

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  51. Hello everyone! Hope you all had a great day! I got the copy of People. I was excited to see it to keep me busy on the beach today. So much of a fuss over Photoshop? Isn't that what the World uses nowadays? I have to say how happy I was see those cute kids all grown up. Both Cara & Maddy looked adorable. The photos in person really do not look as retouched. Esp. on Cara, she looked great.

    Kate and the kids kept a low profile today. Radaronline.com has a photo of Kate running out and getting her nails done. Thats about it..People forget shes actually a mom hanging out with her kids on slow news days I guess.

    Now the promo picture for Sex & The City 2. Kim's face is completely jacked up.. Someone needs to be held accountable for that hot mess! Did anyone see it? Not sure after the reviews if I should waste my money on Monday night. All the good shows are over ;(

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  52. Hope everyone is doing something nice and enjoying themselves we are meeting really neat people and going today to fulfill one of our lifelong dreams of shopping at Ikea the closest one to where we live is 3 large states away

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  53. Sex and The City 2 was G R E A T !!
    I LOVED it!!! Had so much fun :)

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  54. my2girls~ so you enjoyed it? We were supposed to go tonight but my parents are watching the kids so my husband and I can party! I mean go to A party. Because Ive been feeling too mommy lately and really need a night to have fun. But I have to appreciate all my parents do for me more. I made a point to hug and kiss for the weekend they let us crash and that they paid for.

    Next weekend will def. be SATC2..If the bad reviews don't kill it for me first. I'm sure it had a big opening weekend!

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  55. I am still here ....I have been since the beginning.I dont post often but I do stop in and read your post. I just want to say Thank You for all your hard work keeping this blog up and alive,I really appreciate it.Looking forward to seeing the kids again.

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  56. Just got home from a weekend of camping. Can't keep up with all the posts I missed on last thread and then this one. Hope everyone is well.

    tig

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  57. I know she is probably being slammed for it as we speak. I for one appreciate Kates candour in the People article. She forgot something, OMG I forget stuff sometimes. I'm sure it does not just happen in the Gosselin & the Momsby house. Does it? She also spoke to every divorced parent I know with that story about Mad..it is such a very real emotion, MANY if not most kids will express. Sharing like that, I'm sure has made a few more parents think. Phew, I'm not the only one!"

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  58. Momsby said - I know she is probably being slammed for it as we speak. I for one appreciate Kates candour in the People article.

    -----------------------------------------------

    That is always a risk people run when they say something publicly. People take it out of context, take it personally, judge, or criticize that the person didn’t use the right words, or left something out. I for one appreciate Kate’s candour too and usual can relate.
    However, when we don’t like someone we immediately see the negative. When we like someone, we tend to be more forgiving.

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  59. Hi everyone! I haven't posted in a while but I've been reading! I love the new pictures of Kate and the kids on top... adorable!

    Only a few days left until Kate Plus 8! I can't wait to see all of the kiddies again. I'm sure that they had a blast in Florida.. it will be fun to watch!

    I loved Kate's new posts on TLC. Little Leah lost her first tooth! They are growing up so fast! And I totally agree about the summer post. Now that it's Memorial Day, summer vacation is knocking at our door!

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  60. Hey!! I just saw on people.com a clip for Sunday's show...I guess Kate went alone to Florida!! Should be a good show!!

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  61. Weird thing tonight, lol. Right at 7:45 pm my iPhone app for DWTS started playing it's music to remind me. Now I have to figure out how to turn it off.

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  62. Hello! How was everyones day? Linda how come you didn't tell me DWTS had an IPhone app? I would have loved that! lol..Do you think they will have a Kate Plus 8 app? you know I would eat that up!

    I'm probably one of only a few that are dreading Summer to come. After this weekend of too much sun, horrible traffic, 9 kids a screaming, 7 swans a swimming etc..Im so done. I'm not looking forward to the kids being home, trying to find camps and things to keep them busy..etc. plus working part time on top of being the mom taxi will not a fun Summer make.

    I seriously needed to stop thinking about mean haters and psycho bloggers. It comes with the territory when you have run a blog by yourself for so long. So happy my parents took the kids for the day and Mommy and Daddy had some much needed "alone time". Please lets all pray that its a short work week...I will def. try to get you some sort of Sneak Peak on the site in my next post if I can...

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  63. Baby Mama: I saw SATC2 and give it a grade of a B/B+. After discussing with others, I think the biggest issue with this movie is too much time outside NYC. I think I've heard SJP refer to the NYC as the 5th girl in the past. Anyway, i do think it's a must see for any fan of the franchise and I have no doubt there will be a 3rd movie. Weekend ticket sales were good but nowhere near the 1st one. I think they'll make out ok financially in the end.

    I've seen several promos now for Kate Plus 8 on TLC and am excited to see it next week. It's interesting Evan Lysacek said in an interview the 2nd to last week of DWTS that he had just gotten off the phone with Kate and she was about to go swimming with the dolphins and the kids. So she must have spoken to him from Florida. I forget where the interview was but may have been ET or Access Hollywood.

    I also finally(after months) finished reading Julie and Julia so now I can start Kate's book. I hope the Julie and Julia movie is better.

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  64. Also, I was in Ann Taylor yesterday and am fairly certain I saw Kate's green dress from The Tonight Show there and...on sale! ;)

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  65. HeatherAV said - I also finally(after months) finished reading Julie and Julia so now I can start Kate's book. I hope the Julie and Julia movie is better.

    =--------------------------------------------

    I didn't read Julie and Julia, so I can't say for sure, but I didn't really like the movie. I found it boring. Love the actors, but the movie was boring, to me.

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  66. Fascinated, I feel the exact same way about the Movie Julia and Julia. I am glad I watched it, but it was boring movie with good actors. Baby Mama, I am glad that your parents helped you out with the kids today. They will always remember that special time with their grandparents. Speaking of Iphone apps the one I NEED BADLY in my life (LOL) is a farmville App. I would be one happy lady with that.

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  67. I am so behind, lol.

    Hope - Thank you for your photography offer. It was most generous. We're only going to be there for 1, possible two days and will use video cameras. We will only do a few stills. I am trying to go unbiased and with a whole slate of questions. We'll just have one camera (pro) and two of my twins will be shooting (They've decided to do this as next year's "year-long project for school. We'll see.) We do usually farm out stills if needed. I have a possible August job not too far from you. If they sign the contract, I'll be in touch. Thanks

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  68. Baby Mama - I'm so sorry you didn't know about the DWTS app. I learned about it on this blog, though. Should have checked to see if you had it. My apologies. I doubt I'll watch next year, so will probably just turn it off in the updates.

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  69. Baby Mama - I guess since it's summer, more flies just get attracted. Kind of sad that they have no better use for their time. Glad you have a big fly swatter, lol.

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  70. BabyMama: I loved SATC 2!! I have no complaints! It was great.

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  71. my2girls~ So happy you had a great time. Already set my girls night for Friday. Still hugging and kissing my mom because it's also hubby's once a month poker night..

    Linda~Having the show coming up again with bring both the best and the worst of Kate Gosselin haters and supporters I'm sure. But this Mama has been around many a block, and proud of it! So I have absolutely NO problem getting out the bigger and better fly swatter model. Do you think they would get a Kate Plus 8 app? We gotta request that one!

    This weekend is also my birthday weekend. So Sunday is an extra special day for me! ;) Brunch at the Garden City Hotel with my family and Kate Plus 8 at night! What a great night made just for me!!

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  72. Hey! Where is everyone today?? (crickets chirping) I just wanted to add that they are repeating the episodes on June 9th from 7-9 EST if for any reason you miss it the first night June 6th!

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  73. Thanks for the update BMama...you just saved me a whole lotta tween drama! My 12 YO has been begging for weeks, to let her stay up & watch. I would but she is a bear in the a.m. if she's up to late. It's her momsby genes I'm afraid!

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  74. Fellow moms - I need some advice. Whenever we go out at night we always hire an older adult to stay with our kids. We're having some debate though about daytime hours. I'd never ask an older child to babysit younger siblings; IMO that's too much drama and responsibilty, for our big bunch anyway.

    Here comes the question. How old do you think a child should be to be able to be left home alone during daylight hours? (In this situation, for example, say Mom is running errands for a couple of hours with the other children.)

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  75. Linda, IMO, it depends on so many things that I don't think an assigned age can be given. The questions I'd ask is:

    How responsible is the child?
    How close are neigbhors? (ie. 50yds. away or three miles?)
    How trustworthy are neighbors?
    How far will one be while out on errands? (i.e. 10 miles or 30 miles?)

    One child at 13 or so would be capable, another at 17 wouldn't be!

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  76. ZiggyFlo is right on the money regarding the maturity of the child. Age is but a number, and I know many people that left their kids at home alone after ages 11-13 depending on the maturity level.

    Also it really depends how far your going. Taking a quick trip down the street is no biggie, but if Target is 10-15 minutes away, will they we ok by themselves or watching their siblings for an hour? And how old are the siblings? No 11 year ols should have to responsible for any child younger than about 6 or seven. Again, more of that this depends on the maturity level.

    Momsby~ Those times are EST, and will be replayed on those dates from Midnight-2am for some night owls!

    Also Radaronline.com has the lost photos from The Good Housekeeping aritcle from last year. And as you can see, it's a nightmare trying to get 10 people to all look good and smile at the same time. The boys had obviously had it at that point, so I'm actually pissed they would show these...But whatever, the point I guess is that theres nothing wrong in Photoshopping the kids a bit to get that "shot".

    http://www.radaronline.com/photos/image/67911/2010/05/gosselin-family-photo-album

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  77. I guess I should have been more detailed. Smaller town so max distance from Mom would be 10 miles (most errand trips would be 3-5 miles.) Quiet neighborhood where motor traffic is heard easily. Neighbor across the street is probably 300 yards away. Side to side neighbors are closet on one side and double that on the other. Houses in neighborhood tend to have very deep back lots. However the side neighbor who is closest is not home during day. Sound carries well though.

    In this area, kids can take the Red Cross classes for babysitting certification at age 12. At 12, I might have hired a 12 yr old as a mother's helper while I'm at home. I would not hire a 12 year old to babysit alone for younger children. My kids think I'm way over protective. I disagree.

    At 12, I'll let them ride bicycle 7 blocks to club pool. But only because unknown to my children, staff there calls me when they arrive and leave.

    (And before somebody rags me about "club" there are two places to swim, municipal pool 9 miles away at $8 per day per child or join the club that is close. It is &1500 a year and close. If you take 8 per child times day of summer the club is a bargain with tennis, golf etc. We have members of all ethnic origins and we do not discriminate on race or religion.)

    I don't want to stifle growing independence. But I've just never considered it at this age. Am I being too protective? Yes, we have alarms and surveillance cameras but is that enough? (The cameras were put in while we were in FL and home remodeling was being done before we moved here. Doing that reduced our insurance.)

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  78. Thank you so much for your input, ZiggyFlo.

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  79. I have no problem with the club. People go off on things that they can't afford or don't have access to. I'd much rather my kids be able to go to a closed pool than an open one. The times today are different and to ignore that would be foolish. There is no need to give any qualification to what you choose for your children or what you can afford. If anyone has a problem with that, that is THEIR problem. You are the one who has to answer for the well being of your children, not ANY one else.

    Myself, I would not let any child under 15, regardless of maturity level and emergency education, care for any younger children for any length of time, no more than 30 min. But sometimes we are forced in parents due to circumstances beyond our control, to make choices like this. But if it's a open choice,
    if they child is reasonably responsible, you will be that close, can you alert a neighbor to keep a eye out? In those cases, I'd say 12, no earlier. For me the rules would be: no cooking, do not answer the door under any circumstances. Caution about answering the phone, child is never tell anyone you are not home. No going outside. I'd made the rules very strict, it's easier to be able to ease up once you see the child is handling the responsibility than it is to make lenient rules and then try to make the stricter.
    Can you set up access to view your security cameras via your cell?

    It's a tough call in these times - safety while not stifle growing independence. I err on the over protective side, with in reason.

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  80. Thanks Ziggy. I once had somebody get whacked because I said we were having Easter lunch at the club. I thought, who the heck cares where I eat. There aren't a lot of choices close by, and anybody who's not a member can eat there with a credit card. Some people just want to find a reason to jump on people.

    I've told my kids the Red Cross training is good to have as knowledge but they won't be given the responsibility of babysitting until they can at least drive.

    What they keep debating is being able to stay home alone (as in one child) without other children or adults. It happens when I'm doing a run to pick up other kids and I have one who wants to stay home rather than riding with with everybody. Or, when all but one need a haircut.

    Cameras can be remotely accessed from any computer. Accessing from cell phone works poorly.

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  81. Shes got a new blog entry up!! Go Kate!!! :)

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  82. Tashapork - I hope you made it to Ikea. Happy Traveling!
    ----
    CraftyMom - Hope you are on your way to your destination!

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  83. Linda, People

    Child alone, not responsible for any siblings, given all you've said, you'll be close, not gone that long, rules stringent, if neighbor can be alerted, 11 for a very mature child, 12 for less mature.

    That's my final vote! LOL

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  84. One more thing, I knew security camera's could be accessed via any computer, but didn't know if they could be via cell - even if it can't be via cell, I'd tell the kid I could.

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  85. I'm a worry wart. I say 12 the youngest if not watching younger kids. I wouldn't leave a younger child with anyone younger than 15 and only if they are responsible. And the younger child would have to be older than 7. Maybe? It's just scary. It helps that we have cell phones now.

    So supposedly Hailey didn't do it? Where is the police report or official statement? Is Jon the suspect or someone else?

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  86. I saw a hidden camera special once and all the kids that knew better still opened the doors to strangers when there were two of them home alone together. I guess they were braver. Only one young girl who was home alone didn't. She was scared. I felt so bad for here. The other parents were shocked.

    I always wonder how a child would handle an emergency too. Kids don't make good decisions in the heat of the moment. Heck, some adults don't.

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  87. We made it to Ikea and had a wonderful time. Tonight we had crabs at a place in Anapolis called Mikes' which was one of the best meals I have ever had in my life after the graduation. Tomorrow it's Dover, Thursday it's DC and friday an early train to Philadelphia.
    Linda the question of leaving kids alone depends entirely on the kids in question and is situation by situation. The main things to consider are how reliable that child is at following instructions and paying attention to their environment and how quickly they can access help if necessary. The one thing I am noticing however is that there are soo many kids today in late teens without adequate life skills to make it in early adulthood so any teaching parents do is big time helpful. I am noticing that teens and Tweens are typically too involved with the cell and other electronics to babysit reliably unless they are trained. Learning to be a mothers helper or to take charge when mom is gone for very short trips is helpful.

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  88. Thanks Schmecky, Ziggy, and Baby Mama

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  89. Baby Mama - regarding the photograps, they belong to the photographer unless they are a pool photographer, for a newspaper for example. Even then, as a creative property, they usually belong to the photographer unless rights have been assigned.

    Like it or not, unless otherwise released, assigned, or special arrangements made, the photographer can sell them as they wish.

    Photographers may grant single use, perpetual rights, rights to publish for a period such as a year, and a host of other categories.

    You have to get even more specific with videos too. Of the photographer is employed by a production company, you have rights assigned to the company. You have to tread carefully as to who owns and controls what.

    Same reason, if you go have family portraits done, you are buying prints. The photographer/company retain the originals, the negatives or digital images,etc and you can't go to a copy shop and have more made without a release.

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  90. SG - I think I saw the same show you did. The kids who opened the door even admitted later they knew better & some couldn't give explanatins as to why they did when they knew better.
    I originally thought no younger than 12, but then I remembered a kid (now adult) who lives down the st. from me - at even 11 he was more responsible than some 17 yrs. olds. So therefore, for me, the possibility of 11, if mature.

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  91. Ziggy,
    The man came to the door with balloons and a Teddy near and then later with a dog. The little girl was on the phone with a friend and she was nervous. She threatened to call the cops. I got emotional for her because she sounded so nervous.

    I watched When A Stranger Calls when I was younger and that movie ruined babysitting for me forever.

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  92. SG - if this was the same show I saw, it was a 'test' - they showed several kids & used different tatics. Some of the parents were certain their kid wouldn't open the door and a kid or two just opened the door without even checking first, the parents were floored - does that sound like the same show?

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  93. Ziggy,
    Yes! That was it! Funny you saw it too.

    Tashapork,
    Sounds like a great trip! Enjoy!

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  94. Thanks folks for your advice. Since I'm not sure still, I think we may do a controlled test with one son today. He may be ready. His sister, the same age, I don't think is ready. She's just too gullible. I'm afraid the "lost puppy" story would get her every time. It's such a fine line patents walk. We've done the scenarios at school and done drills but still. You want to make them independent and self-reliant but you've got to protect them, each according to abilities.

    We're packing for trip to Florida next week so there are always errands to run.

    Thanks again.

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  95. Lol. I was trying to type "parents" and typed patents. My haste and error.

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  96. My nephew and I are taking my girls to the beach today (hubby is working)... not sure if I will check in on my BlackBerry or not, but I'll be thinking of you all while I have fun in the sun, except of course for Baby Mama; she hates the beach. ;)

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  97. Linda, I'm in the same situation as we speak! My 12 yo just took the St.Johns sitting course & can't understand why a) I still do not want to leave her alone. B) Why I won't hire her to look after her 3 & 21 mth old sibs. I'm SO mean!! We did do a test run, let her stay home with a friend(with the parents approval) while we were at friends a few blocks away. I live in a very small safe community..but you can never be too safe. She called the cell, 4 times..hmm I don't think she is ready. I'm just bracing myself for when someone actually, asks her to sit their kids...I prefer older sitter's personally, but some people are ok with 12 &13 yo's. I actually looked after an infant all the time, when I was 12. I was babysitting alot at her age, but it was a different time and apparently I was mature. Or so say's my mom when I asked her.

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  98. Let me tell you just how much I hate the beach..I'm reading posts from the doctors office right now while I'm supposed to be work. My eldest was fine going to school yesterday, and came home with her right eye closed shut! The nurse said it was a mosquito/nat bite that blew up her inflamed eye. Now more anibiotics..I'm not loving the beach! So please make sure you bring the bug spray Schmecky! Glad to see you ;)

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  99. Oh No, hope she feels better soon. Yesterday, when we were at the beach, my 3yo informed me..She does not like the way sand feels, the water is cold and she why didn't we bring our pool when we moved, we brought her bed. It is going to be a long summer for that girl. On the bright side, my baby thinks the beach is the best place ever!

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  100. Baby Mama - Hope your daughter's eye gets better fast. That's frightening when it is an eye!

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  101. momsby - That is hilarious about your 3yo asking why you didn't bring the pool when you moved. Kids are so funny about moving things. Hopefully the water will get warmer. Or, she will adjust. Some kids love the adventure of a move and some kids just really do not like change. Glad at least that your baby likes the beach.

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  102. RE: letting a child stay home alone.

    Tried a little test with my son today and he passed with flying colors. (I still wouldn’t leave his twin sister, lol.)

    I didn’t think he’d open the door because we’ve practiced this (if Mom or Dad are upstairs or downstairs, check the monitor first!) but you just never know with kids.

    He got even more “tests” than I’d planned. The UPS man made a delivery with a signature required; he did not open door! Neighbor came over to borrow a lasagna pan, ran the bell and called out to him saying “I know you’re in there ‘cause your Mom told me you’d be home. I need to get this cooking now so I can’t wait.” She’s watched the kids for us before and I figured he’d open the door. My son was so cool. He ran and got the lasagna pan, took it to the side porch, quickly opening and closing the inside door but leaving the outer door locked. Then he went back to the speaker at the front and said, “If you need it right now then use the code and get it off the side porch. I put it there for you.” I thought that was pretty sharp thinking.

    We have caller-ID and I’d also told him no phone calls unless it’s Mom or Dad. In 30 minutes he got four phone calls and two were from friends. He did not answer the phone.

    When I got back I asked him how it went and he said, “It was fine, no big deal.” Later he came in the kitchen and said, “It’s more fun being out with you. I know I complain but I think I’ll just go with you next time. When you aren’t here, people come to the door, the phone rings and I can’t talk to my friends. This house makes creaking noises too.”

    I asked him if he thought his sister was ready for that. He looked at me with big, bug eyes and said, “No way would I leave her here. No way.”

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  103. Linda; I just love your stories. I smiled the whole time. Sounds like you are raising a smart cookie!!!

    tig

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  104. Tigger - Thanks a bunch. We try. Their each very different in their talents and abilities. His twin is a phenomenal singer though; her brother hates performing. She's the one who got to go to perform at Disney with her choral group from school. She and 5 or 6 others are singing the National Anthem at a baseball game tomorrow night in another town. Our whole crew is going along to listen to her sing and catch the game. (I don't care much for baseball as a spectator sport, but you do what you need to do for your kids!)

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  105. Tigger - Do you ever have days when you just can't type? Boy, I sure do! I was trying to say "They're each very different in their talents and abilities." Probably messed up more in typing also. At least the blog error finders will have something to talk about, lol.

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  106. Linda, that is so funny. Problem solved! The things kids don't get is with freedom & maturity comes responsibilites. It looks all fun and games, but it's not.

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  107. SchmeckyGirl - Hope you had a glorious day at the beach!

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  108. We do Skype a lot with family and friends. If you don't have Skype and have a computer with even a tiny camera, it is great. it's a free download and a great way to talk and visit. Not a commercial but a friend asked me today how come I never told her about it so I thought I'd mention it.

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  109. Hi BabyMama & all the bloggers! Looking forward to Sunday night! The kids have all gotten so big, esp. the twins. Life has changed so much -

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  110. I havent posted on your site in so long. But w/the new show starting next week, I just had to stop in and see what was new. Love the new site. Keep up the great work. I'll be stopping in more often, not w/the new show premiering. :)

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  111. hey everyone I am still alive...barely. move was horrendous and I still don't have internet so I will try to comment when I can bur my Droid wont always let me. Tashapork will you email me on FB if BARBARA mama puts up a new post? I can only seem to get FB to work right now on my phone.

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  112. And I did mean baby mama but my phone wouldn't let me change it. :)

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  113. Baby Mama - I hope your little one is feeling better by now. Those darn bugs!

    About leaving kids home alone?? When my son was twelve, I tried it but my daughter who was 9 went to her friends house. They had so much sibling rivalry that I could never leave both home alone. They fight too much. Only problem was that we had a pool and the rules were that he could not go in without an adult present. Well, that didn't last more then 2 days and I knew he was lying when he said he didn't take a dip because he was so clean when I got home from work. They went to Grandmas house after that or Grandparents came over so they could all swim on hot days.
    That's why I always thanked God for my parents and sisters that were there to help me when I needed them. It's not easy when your a single MOM and having to work all week.

    Good luck Linda, it sounds like you are on the right track. Also, with cell phones now a days, it makes it allot easier and safer for them to stay in touch if need be.

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  114. Hello everyone! Sorry about the delay. Today's fresh paper will be in honor of me needing a more calming yet homey/foodie (sp) scent. Thinking of the light scent of creme brulee & cinnamon..Along with a warm touch of apple crisp.

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