Mine's to do a triathlon. I know, I know... it's not much. But I'm sort of a "one exercise" kind of person -- and it would be good for me to push myself in that way.

I sort of get a stab at both perspectives. The days that I am "home" (though often working, or working wee hours while she sleeps) I feel like I cuddle and play LESS. This is because I am trying to do so many other chores, errands, playdates, etc... I have to consciously think about sitting on the floor without my phone or computer and playing with her (which I certainly do). But the days that I drop her off or pick her up from child care, I am squeezing in hugs and "i love yous" every second I get. So I think this study has a lot of merit. Just ask SAHMs who are away from their kids for awhile and come home -- they immediately scoop up the kids and cuddle the seond they get back.

To all those posting Polish jokes, remember the last name of the person who posted this and be kind... :-)

I agree that it's common sense for Moms to think about what they are putting into their bodies, whether it be sugars, or nicotine, or alcohol, while pregnant or breastfeeding. But as someone who "gave up" after 3 months of breastfeeding, I think that the pressure to be perfect while you are nursing can be overwhelming. When I stopped, it was the right choice for my daughter and I, but I had been a nervous wreck during the time I did it.

I struggle with this too. In my case, all my best girlfriends are in a completely different state -- and also busy with their own families. I have to push myself to make, and keep, playdates. And if there's a time that I'm at home and feel sad or lonely -- I try to write a "check in" email or text. It's not the same as a kegger or shopping trip, but makes me feel connected to my friends in a small way.

Oh my goodness -- goggles in the kiddie pool? How cute! These kids are serious about having the "complete" swimming experience!

I've read about these recent cases with horror and disgust myself. Guess it's just one more thing to add to the list of things to warn my daughter about as she gets older. Unfortunately "creepers" find moments to take advantage when kids, tweens, teens are most vulnerable.

Flying with kids is difficult. Sometimes they love it, sometimes they want off. Parents should do their best to be considerate of the other travelers. But other travelers should realize that sometimes kids will be kids -- and there's no way to appease them. A little consideration all around...

I guess no matter what grandparents "want" to be called, it seems that the grandkids are the ones who come up with something that sticks!

Lisa -- Yes, that is exactly what Publix is for! And where I ended up stopping before the picnic. Momupnites: Good for you! My mom did something similiar when we were all old enough to do those things ourselves. And as far as looking like a flower, well, I think I can pull even that together. Or else it will be another faux pas that you will be reading about next week!

He sounds like such a wonderful young man! He will have "his moments" as a tween and teen, but sounds like he's going to stay sweet. Great job to you and your husband!

Jane: Correction applied. The story I used for my post was very preliminary.

Adj, Michelle and Laszloew: thank you for sharing (yes Michelle, RUN for your hubby!). Your well-spoken contributions are appreciated.

Denhunter -- Our blog administrator deleted you yesterday because of your use of profanity. I don't mind when people speak their mind -- that's what comments are for. You are correct, I do not like or want to cook. But you are wrong about resenting my daughter -- it's why I don't date much. I like to just be at home with her. But single parents have a voice too, which is why I post things like this.

Really? -- Awwww.. why thank you Sir. And just to clear it up for all readers/commentors, my daughter and I generally eat raw things -- fruits, vegetables, beans, etc. I bake chicken and boil pasta every few days, and pull out the George Foreman for seafood. So never fear -- we eat plenty. It's just that through the years I've been known to be a terrible cook when I actually attempt creative things, and on occasion, have burned a bag of popcorn or two in the microwave. It's sort a joke amongst family members and friends of mine that may not have translated accurately in this post. Word! -- good points. I suppose I just haven't found the "right" one, like you say. Matt -- ummmm... not sure what to say!

Really? -- It's not that I can't use a microwave, it's just that I use it so infrequently, I would never tote it as one of my "reasons to be my boyfriend." Wouldn't want to falsely advertise :)

Emilia doesn't really talk or answer questions yet... but one day when we were making funny faces in the mirror, I said "Who is the cutest baby in the world? Emilia!" and then I said, "Who is the prettiest girl?" and my little, adorable, WONDERFUL girl said "Mama" right on cue. :)

How about landline phones in general? I haven't had a home phone since dorm phone my first year in college. My daughter will never comprehend why people used to stand in one place and be tethered to a wall by a curly cord -- or comprehend the concept of a parent listening in on calls from another room. Also -- watching commercials on TV. In the age of DVR and Tivo, our kids will never have to sit through 3-5 minutes of ads if they don't want to.

Those are hilarious! My Dad used to sneak a quarter into Payday candy bars before he would give it to me. So once in college I bought one out of a vending machine and said, "hey, where's my quarter?" Needless to say, everyone thought I was a little crazy...

Hmmmm.... I think that maybe I should clarify my "laundry" comment. I am not single by choice -- so instead of feeling bad about that fact, I find small things in my everyday to perk me up a bit. Having a less-than-tidy house is just one way I do that. I am in no way saying that dirty laundry makes up for the absence of a Dad -- just gives me a little relief in my own life, that's all.

Great example Jenna -- I love how you said that he loves going to the grandparents, but you STILL feel guilty! And so true on the healthy example. Non-drinking Dad: So drinking isn't your thing -- no worries. What sorts of things do you like to do, and do you ever feel guilty if your kids aren't involved? Cat: I had a great time too!

It just occurred to me as I was reading through these comments that your attitude really is shaped by your own situation. The married women with helpful husbands will take a little bit of criticism for clothes on the bathroom floor and don't mind working at the marriage because they know it is worth it. But someone like me doesn't know what it's like to have a husband who wants to help out -- so it's better for me to assume that I'm better off without a man, just to keep my sanity. Thanks for your honesty PrincessHaven and your insight realist.

Dads definently get a bad reputation based on how some of them behave. To all you GREAT Dads -- thank you on behalf of all Moms! And yes, the grass is always greener.

I agree with Angela and Kim. I rocked a bikini up until a week before I delivered -- and I had gained nearly 40 pounds at that point. It actually really boosted my self-confidence during a time when I was feeling huge and disgusting.

Kim -- I totally missed that too!! She's my FAVORITE! Good for her to have such a "large" family by Hollywood standards.