That is a good first step on his part though...

Good news and bad news [2008-06-22]
There are 2 on-line schools that are excellent and would prepare you for the real world: Andrews and M-Tec. The bad news is that from my reading, MDs have a goal of changing over to electronic check-off systems to control costs and take over control of quality. I read they wanted the change to happen within 2 years. I've changed careers already, and I really couldn't recommend anybody start down the path at this point. Just suspicions, of course.

first step [2008-06-14]
Brooke: I want to commend you on going to church and the strides you are making to show a good example. But that may not be quite enough. It sounds as if your husband has an inkling that he needs to make some changes . However, I do still think that the suggestion for martial counseling with your pastor is important. From some of you have said it does sound like there are a few more seriuos issues than him simply taking you for granted. You make it sound as if he is controlling all the fiances and your behavior and actions through that. Now I understand being frugal but you stated he can spend what he wants but you afraid to even ask for 20 dollars to joint a Momgood now. But remember, again you are to be viewed in terms of good or bad or imply you deserve certain treatment do to past mistakes. In the end you shoudl provide for your future. I think every woman does need a saftey plan for financial security. Working part-time would provide you money to buy some things for yourself and also to join group. You need social support. Right now you are essentially isolated other than your husband and family. What about joinign a MOPS group through church? I am not sure, but dont' think there is a charge. You need a group of supportive peole other than your husband. Keep going to church - maybe your husband might get into the men's minsitry. This could serve two-fold. He could see and model from Chrisian men how they interact aand also how they treat their wives. It would also give him a social outlet. The two of you going out without kids is also good. remember so a combinatin of things. One thing (such as date night or occasional church service) isn't going to work. Pray together. Have yourchurch family pray for you. I undersatnd divorce is not an option. I salute your committment to your marriage but your husband has to be as committed. It cannot just be about YOU making changes. So pray for his change of heart and try to actively involve him. YOu must communicate with him. Not yell, no walk on egg shells. If you are afraid to talke to him why? Has he been abusive/ Were you abused in the past by someone? AGain if this the case you need immediate intervention. Bottom line God asks men to love their wives but he did not say control their wives or belittle their wives. Women should suport and love their husbands as head of household but not be afraid of them or cower to them....

My 8-month old got on a good schedule around 3 months... [2008-05-22]
Good luck with this!

That is a good first step on his part though... [2008-04-01]
it shows he was paying attention and realized he needs to pay attention to your needs...keep going to church...that has always helpd me through hard times...

You are no good for your kids in this state. If you [2008-01-18]
x

Good Sam Hosp/ Puyallup [2008-01-16]
Have you tried Good Sam? When I worked there the benies were wonderful and so was the entire staff.

Good luck training the 10-month old when [2007-12-24]
that time comes. My kids are 14 months apart and I just potty trained the first one when the second one started walking. The older one decided since the younger was walking and still in diapers, she could go back to diapers too. So I ended up potty training the first one all over again at the same time I was potty training the younger. Because the older reverted back to refusing to use the potty chair, I started potty training the younger one at a year old. Took about 1 month. Thank goodness too! The younger one was so much easier since she had already seen big sis using the potty chair and kinda knew what it was about.

It takes awhile to make good money in this career. [2007-12-05]
Iyears now, and I am just finally starting to pick up my speed substantially and make some more money. I am nowhere near $40,000 though, and I don It can be done, but don Does Career Step help you with job placement once you graduate? That is key to getting a good job, as many employers will not hire you without 2 years of experience unless your school hooks you up. Good luck if this is the career you choose. I'm glad I chose it, but it is a very challenging career imo.

....Do your research and much good luck to you! nm [2007-10-24]
s

Great! I hope it goes well! Good luck! nm [2007-08-09]
nm

Can only offer good wishes, but what kind of [2007-06-25]
father dumps his kids on someone else to raise while their mother is in a mental institution and pays 1000 a week for that? He can hire a nanny who has no other responsibilities for that price! What kind of job keeps him out of state all the time?

You kind of left out the part of education and [2007-05-18]
Sorry but it doesn't even give good information for experienced MTs.

Career Step from what I hear is another great online school as well... [2007-05-07]
I also agree with the other poster about babies sleeping so much the first few months that you could definitely get some studying done then, too, but remember to take care of yourself as well and try to fit in some rest. As you know, having a baby can really take a toll on the ole' body! I also found working around a baby's schedule was much easier than working around a preschooler which I am currently doing at the moment, thank God for preschool and naps! LOL! On another note, I went to a community college to become medical Transcriptionist (have been doing this for about 15 years now), this was before they had such great online schools, but I have heard Career Step is right up there with the others you mentioned. Just research to find a good fit. Good luck!

I can't imagine starting out part-time, just [2007-02-13]
working weekends. Hopefully you'd be working with an experienced MT on one specialty, and she'd be available all the time to listen, but that doesn't sound like a good deal for her if she is hiring somebody so she can get a little free time. She'd be stuck training you for a long, long time. Sorry to be negative, but I was new at this once, and I started full time and wished I'd known to go to Andrews instead of my little business college (I wasn't planning to become an MT, just a medical secretary).

Good speech editor companies [2007-01-22]
Anyone know of any good speech Editor companies? I am looking to give my hand a little break!!!

good help, thanks [2006-10-29]
Thanks everyone for the ideas and support. I think I am going to do what I do for church (we just moved and our new church does not have a nursery, just a cry room) - I am going to have a bunch of toys/items designated for only while I am working, and keep them in a box. When it is time for me to work, I will pull out the box. Of course, it will have to be more varied than the church bag since it will be every day instead of once per week, but hopefully that will help. I like the idea of putting a tarp down for them to do crafts on. I may have to try that. Thanks again!!!

Mariah Mikayla is my adopted daughter's name - we picked part of it...nm [2006-08-01]
nm

Thanks! Good idea! [2006-07-26]
nm

Poll: A good friend of mine is pregnant and looking [2006-07-20]
Or there any baby names you just love? Thanks!

Binki Advice - Good Luck! [2006-07-18]
I will tell you what worked for me....of course this was 16 years ago, as my oldest is now 18...she used to have a passifier that I never thought I would be able to get away from her...but here is what we did and it worked.....She was almost three at the time I started this....but I started out by saying that she could not take the binki out of the car.....if we went to the store, she had to leave it in the car, reassuring her that it would be there when we got back and she could have it back....i did that for about three or four days...then I moved it to the house...I said you can only have it in the house......she could suck it all she wanted anywhere in the house, but when we left, even to go out and play she had to leave it there, making sure she understood that it would be there when we got back.....I did that for about a week....then I moved it to her room.....the same scenerio.....the only place she could have the binkiwas in her room.......it was tough but she did it.....if she wantedher binki, I would say that is fine, but you have to stay in your room with it...she would take a few sucks and then run back out! It was kind of funny and kind of heartbreaking because you know by the age of 2, they are really hooked on that thing....finally after a week of that, I said the only place you can have it is when you're in bed....for about a week we did that, and then it seemed pretty easy....I put it up on her dresser about a week and a half after that and said it had to stay there and she never really wanted it again. I think it's really true that if you let them have it after the age of one....they are very addicted and its hard....my son is two, and I took his away when he was close to a year old...I suffered through him crying for it, but it only took two days and he did not want it anymore...I did the same thing with the bottle. I hope that gives you a little help and I hope it works for ya, and the only other thing I will say is once you make the rule that it can't come out of the house, the car, the room, etc...then you have to be stern because the first time you give in....you have to start all over again. Have a nice day!

websites for good deals on shoes [2006-07-11]
I guess this needs to go under this board since I am a mom and it pertains to my son, hehe. Anyway, does anyone know any good websites for teenagers' tennis shoes? My son loves the Heelys, DC shoes, etc. Once in awhile I find good clearance prices on these, but not lately. Any secrets you can share? Thanks!

I believe it is all a state of mind [2008-08-31]
kind of thing. Some days I would love to stay in my pj I have 5 children that I homeschool every morning. I have a K, 2nd, 3rd, 5th, 6th graders at home. They are the reason I do this job so that I can be home with them. I work 4 days per week, part-time and the kids have piano lessons, dance lessons, school work, etc.. We manage to get everything done in a day. They also know that when mom is working it is time for them to do something quietly and they cooperate very well. It can be done and it does not have to be hard.

Chalkboard paint.... [2008-08-18]
I have used the chalkboard paint in my daughters room on her wall. What I did was put it on the portion of the wall behind her bedroom door where you cant really see it unless you go in and look so it would not be this big black spot on her bedroom wall. I thought it went better to spray the paint on a styrofoam plate (they only had spray cans) and then paint it on with one of those sponge brushes, was less of a mess. You have to put a couple of layers on and if they are rough with it you may have to touch it up later or fill in some chipped places (if they hit at it with the chalk). Overall though, I thought it was well worth it. She loves to play school with it and it has lasted a good while. HTH

Really possible? [2008-08-18]
I am not an MT (yet) but before I make the final step enrolling in M-Tec I wanted to ask a serious, point blank question. Can a new person, after completing M-Tecs course, make 20k a year at any point after getting a job (while working no more than 40 a week as well). Is this an at all reasonable expectation? I am looking long term career choice if I commit to the training but I have heard from working MT's in my state that they were working 80+ hours for about $500.00. If this is the reality then I will have to consider another option and that would be OK, just not optimal. I THANK you for any help you can give.

MDI-MD... [2008-08-12]
Check out MDI-MD out of Baltimore, Maryland. I have been with them since April of this year after leaving Medquist and very happy with them so far. Part-time is 700 lines a day or full-time at 1200 lines (but can do more - you tell them how many lines you want) and you have a 24-hour period to complete your work, no set schedule. Love it!

No regrets however my kids are now older (sm) [2008-08-04]
so I I liked being available for them (still do) during school holidays, summer time, those days when they're sick, etc. and wouldn't have traded it for the world. I don What I like best about doing this from home is the flexibility I have to schedule doctor's appointments, manicures, etc. Good luck!

AMEN Eileen!! That's why I work like I do also (sm) [2008-08-04]
However, in the 17 years I I've always gotten up, had a shower and gotten dressed ... transcribing in my PJs would just lead to depression I think ... I made showering and dressing a priority when I first had babies too ... especially after I read that new moms who didn't take time to do that small step had more problems with PPD. I try to get some sunshine every single day too, even if it However, I need to find more time to exercise but I It's so easy to let yourself go but I've always scheduled manicures, etc. at least monthly and try not to make transcribing my life (some weeks it's harder than others).

That is a total bummer! [2008-07-28]
Good luck with your search!

Been there...done that [2008-07-24]
Please don't beat yourself up. I've been exactly where you are and it's not a hard place to end up. I could have written your post. I lived in my PJs and sometimes wore them for days, no make-up, and the same issues with even basic daily hygiene, i.e. showers. The best advice I can give you is what worked for me and that is to GET OUT OF THE HOUSE! I had to put MTing on the back burner and actually took a job close to home as a waitress! Believe it or not, it did wonders for my self-esteem. Most people would consider serving the public a degrading position or demotion from what I had done before. I needed the structure, a time-clock, and just basic interaction with other human beings. After close to a year, I am back at home working once again as an MT. Public service can be difficult, but it was just the boost I needed to get my mojo back and appreciate the fact that I'm in a field that allows me to work at home. Believe it or not, I miss the people so much, I'm considering going back to waitressing a few nights a week. I actually even made more waitressing than being an MT! Give it a shot. Waitressing may not be your first choice, but I would definitely advise finding any type of job that will get you out of the house. It will give you a reason to fix yourself up and dig the make-up bag back out. Please feel free to email me if you'd like to talk. Good luck to you!

working at home [2008-07-23]
I work at home also, but one of the private accounts I work on requires me to go to the office twice a week to pick up tapes. Maybe that is a good thing. During the summer my husband and daughter go with me and then we grab lunch out together and do whatever errands we have to do. It really is a change and I love it.

Alright kiddo.....pull yourself up and outta [2008-07-22]
I know the feeling all to well BUT I just have to get up, get dressed (out of PJs) and let your mind know you are going to work. Considering your shift, sitting in PJs is fine but when you get up the next day, you really need to get a shower and GET DRESSED! It will do wonders to help how you feel AND go outside EVERYDAY. Your body really needs sunlight. This very well is leading to your depression, not to mention just lack of walking outside those four walls. Make an appointment NOW girl and go get that hair cut. That will make you instantly feel better, remind you of who you are and that the world does not completely revolve around your job. Your children really need to see this for themselves. It will and is affecting them to see you like this and not for the better either. Sending your teen to the grocery store is a great learning experience for him, teaches him responsibility BUT they would probably like to spend a little time with their mom, cleaned up and dressed. Go get a burger and fries with them or just walk the mall a little. Just changing your routine a little will make you feel better and make your children feel better as well. Your stress level will probably go away if you remove yourself from your home more not to mention the great benefit this will have on your children. Think of them......they tend to fall into a pattern of what they see a parent doing and they could privately be worrying about you as well, which is not good for their stress level either.

I totally agree... [2008-07-22]
This is what I would do: In the morning either before or after your sleep time, go ahead and get a shower and get dressed even if that is in sweats or comfortable clothes. Wear these same clothes to cook dinner and into your shift. I think the problem is that you're working 3rd shift and I think that is the cause of the PJ situation. I read a book that my 8-year-old wrote around Motherpajamas. I had not really looked at it that way, but I guess she does see me in lounge clothes moreso than everyday clothes. I also work full-time at home, but not third shift. You may also want to consider getting involved in something even if it is a painting class or something you like to do. I know this costs money, but your sanity will be saved in the long run. I am fortunate enough to have gotten involved with some of the parents from my kids Even though it is not over and beyond socializing, it is something, i.e., coffee for an hour on a weekday. It is very, very easy to get homebound in this profession. I cringe at the thought of going out on a Friday night with all of the traffic. I am only 37, this is not right. So, I am also letting you know that you are not alone. Hang in there, and like the other poster says get a haircut. Plan a dinner out if possible with your teens and make it a point to step outside a few times during the evening just to gulp some fresh air. I water the flowers. Is there something that needs done outside that you could do this? Hugs to you...

internship or not? [2008-06-23]
....I am a newbie, and as most of you already know, it is incredibly hard to find work as a newbie. I just wanted to get some opinions on internships with companies. I have also been offered a paid position with a medical transcription company that will monitor my work until I am able to go at it on my own. Is an internship more beneficial or should I just take the paid job? I know some may think this is a stupid question, but I want to make the right decision, as this will be a huge step toward the career I have been wanting for a very long time.

first step [2008-06-14]
Brooke: I want to commend you on going to church and the strides you are making to show a good example. But that may not be quite enough. It sounds as if your husband has an inkling that he needs to make some changes . However, I do still think that the suggestion for martial counseling with your pastor is important. From some of you have said it does sound like there are a few more seriuos issues than him simply taking you for granted. You make it sound as if he is controlling all the fiances and your behavior and actions through that. Now I understand being frugal but you stated he can spend what he wants but you afraid to even ask for 20 dollars to joint a Momgood now. But remember, again you are to be viewed in terms of good or bad or imply you deserve certain treatment do to past mistakes. In the end you shoudl provide for your future. I think every woman does need a saftey plan for financial security. Working part-time would provide you money to buy some things for yourself and also to join group. You need social support. Right now you are essentially isolated other than your husband and family. What about joinign a MOPS group through church? I am not sure, but dont' think there is a charge. You need a group of supportive peole other than your husband. Keep going to church - maybe your husband might get into the men's minsitry. This could serve two-fold. He could see and model from Chrisian men how they interact aand also how they treat their wives. It would also give him a social outlet. The two of you going out without kids is also good. remember so a combinatin of things. One thing (such as date night or occasional church service) isn't going to work. Pray together. Have yourchurch family pray for you. I undersatnd divorce is not an option. I salute your committment to your marriage but your husband has to be as committed. It cannot just be about YOU making changes. So pray for his change of heart and try to actively involve him. YOu must communicate with him. Not yell, no walk on egg shells. If you are afraid to talke to him why? Has he been abusive/ Were you abused in the past by someone? AGain if this the case you need immediate intervention. Bottom line God asks men to love their wives but he did not say control their wives or belittle their wives. Women should suport and love their husbands as head of household but not be afraid of them or cower to them....

My 8-month old got on a good schedule around 3 months... [2008-05-22]
Good luck with this!

I read that book long ago... [2008-05-21]
Really helped me understand why they are the way they are, but some stuff will not happen that she has me doing. They do need to be told things out right. I have found that my husband and I usually have very poor verbal communication skills, but using the computer to talk can help if you are trying to get away from the screaming and pointing. You need to stay on task when typing what you need from him (don't start ranting and raving). Words do come through on the screen, and since that seems to be his medium of choice it may just work. If all else fails, leave him alone with your children for a few days, if you trust him. Like you say he is home on the weekends. I know that it can be hard since you are nursing, but get a breast pump and get that baby use to a bottle. They still get all the benefits of you without you needing to be there. If he still belittles you than maybe marrying him was not the right thing to do and you need to search yourself to see what needs to be done. Beginning MTs have a lot of work to be done and the schooling work is not easy if you truly go through a good program. Do let him know that you are having second thoughts about this marriage as you thought you were getting a life partner, not a dictator. Hope this helps. My husband knows better. I can go forever without cleaning if he pisses me off. I started by not washing his clothes. He wanted clean clothes he could wash them himself, that was before children when we were both working. He got the picture then.

name [2008-05-21]
good luck with your endeavor. If I remember right, we could not use 's in AQHA, so how about T Banks Snowshark? You could stick White or Diamond just about anywhere in there, right before or after snowshark.

Hard to remember those days - I too was sleep deprived. [2008-05-21]
I have an 8-month-old now. From what I can remember, they suggest not pushing a schedule until after 3 months and to not expect any certain schedule until around that point in time. Good luck.

May I suggest as well [2008-05-01]
that you seek marriage counseling, AND fast. My 10 year marriage ended in 2006 because of the same situation, EXCEPT I was working full-time at home with 2 children a home as well and still was expected and told to do EVERYTHING...... Good Luck!!

Here is what I would do... [2008-04-09]
Since you don I went to my local library and got the list of girls who had taken the babysitter course, which included CPR. They are mostly in 7th -9th grades. It is the perfect job for them, and you are home and available if there is an emergency. I have used my list several times, and have had much luck with it. It is an easy solutionversus hiring a nanny, who youin the fall, etc. Good luck!!

That's exactly what I would say [2008-04-02]
I've actually said it to my husband a few times. He's actually really good and cleaning the house so it's not really a problem, but every once and a while it happens.

?'s about balancing work and kids [2008-04-02]
I would love to hear what others do in the same situation... In the past few months I have picked up more work. I am now working a minimum of 5-6 hours a day although usually more. I figure if I have to I can most of the time get my work done in 5-6 hours. So... I have a 2 yo, 9 yo, and 10 yo. My job is flexible. I can work the hours as wish as long as I get my required work done. I have two dilemmas... Summer vacation: All kids home. Will be bringing older two to a summer camp from 9-12 daily. It involves getting them up and ready from about 8-9 and dropping them off. Will be back by about 9:15. I will still have the 2 yo. Of course, I would also love to have some free time to spend with my kids in the summer (is this asking too much?). So it would be ideal to get my hours in as early as possible and have some time in the afternoon free. I also don I am thinking maybe getting up super early, maybe getting a sitter in the morning? Anyone else in this situation? Then, return to school in the fall...The older two will be in school so that part of the dilemma is solved. My 2 yo will be attending preschool 2 mornings. I am thinking maybe getting someone to watch her in the afternoons. Maybe a nanny? Anyone have any experience with nannies? Where do I look? Any help would be GREATLY appreciated. I am sure there are others who have been in these situations. I like hearing about what other MT Any hints, advice, tips, etc are great.

work and kids [2008-04-02]
Is working at night an option? I have a 12 yo, 9 yo, 6 yo, and 4 yo. In the summer I have to do most of my work at night because they are all home. You might try a splitting it up - working a few hours in the morning and then a few hours at night. It definitely can be challenging but it can be done! Good luck to you!

During the summer I work early a.m. for the majority of my lines usually 4-9 a.m. [2008-04-02]
If I have not hit my line count, I typically pick up the rest at night after the kids are in bed. We do the day camp, summer activities and classes, swim lessons, etc., but I could never get into a good rhythm in the short periods between getting everyone ready to go and playing chauffeur all day long. It really is easier for me to split my shift and work when there are not other things going on.

God knows when I need Him! [2008-04-01]
He definitely planted the seed in my heart that said to go to church... many times I've resisted arguing because I don't want to be angry all day, but according to what we learned Sunday, we can't control our spouse's actions, we can only control our own. Therefore, I should be the kind of person I want him to be and by my example he will be led to do the same. So, I'm going to do everything in my power to make him feel like I want him to make me feel, and do for him what I'd like him to do for me. This is a step toward progress... and I would never even consider separation or divorce, that's not in our vocabulary. Too many people throw other people away when they're unhappy instead of working on it. Now if he was a wife beater, or hurt my kids... I'd get out ASAP ha. Thankfully that is not the case.

God knows when I need Him! [2008-04-01]
He definitely planted the seed in my heart that said to go to church... many times I've resisted arguing because I don't want to be angry all day, but according to what we learned Sunday, we can't control our spouse's actions, we can only control our own. Therefore, I should be the kind of person I want him to be and by my example he will be led to do the same. So, I'm going to do everything in my power to make him feel like I want him to make me feel, and do for him what I'd like him to do for me. This is a step toward progress... and I would never even consider separation or divorce, that's not in our vocabulary. Too many people throw other people away when they're unhappy instead of working on it. Now if he was a wife beater, or hurt my kids... I'd get out ASAP ha. Thankfully that is not the case. Thank you for your encouragement!