Y'know, it's kinda weird to have a child, one who's right here next to me, in fact, being cute, and yet to not have the faintest notion what it feels like to go into labor

Were you induced, Susan? I know it was very weird for me, after having Jake induced (and then having a C-section), when I went into labor with Ben.

I think Stephanie's definitely starting labor.

I just hope she called someone, since she hasn't been back on the board. Any contractions that hurt, that close together, at this point in pregnancy, usually mean something's about to happen.

ETA: Oh good! Take it easy while you can.

~~~

All you BPAL afficianados out there, any useful advice about using the oils? I got the 6-perfume sampler for my birthday, and chose the scents myself, but I've never had perfume oil before and I don't want to a) give myself an asthma attack, or b) blow away everyone in the room with overpowering scent. Can I dab some on a cotton ball and then apply? Has anyone mixed it into eau de parfum? (Not that I have any idea how to do that...)

My mom and I are watching the Bourne Supremacy while waiting. At least it passes the time.

Have you taken a shower? You may not get one for a while.

I know none of it's for me, but seeing "baby~ma" and "Stephanie" in the same sentence is freaking me out.

That said, baby~ma to (not-me) Stephanie!

t edited for a typo that proves my mind is 3 words ahead of my fingers at all times....

t need coffee now

Have you taken a shower?

Good idea. My SIL gave me a manicure while passing the time and timing contractions. My fingers were very pretty in the new baby pictures.

Go Stephanie! Much baby~ma for delivery and a happy child coming to you from Hayward.

Laura, I can be your shed buddy. I have just purchased a wonderful vintage wooden shed with adorable trim from the estate of my neighbor, and DH and I have realized we really have no clear idea about just how we'll transport it two doors down. Ideas include taking it apart, and getting some furniture dollies to roll it. We do know how nice it will be to have a workshop, cause we truly miss having a garage. Anybody needing a good workout can come and visit us next week and we'll work ya like a dog.

-t, front load washers are da bomb. I think I may love my washer and dryer more than the refrigerator and furnace. I've lived without heat before, which was rawther difficult in the Haight-Ashbury at the edge of the fog belt.

Can I dab some on a cotton ball and then apply? Has anyone mixed it into eau de parfum?

Get some perfumer's alcohol (you can use vodka in a pinch) to wet your cotton ball with first. It's also what you'd want to use to mix it into the latter. I've done the latter with essential oils, but not with perfume oils. There are many instructions online, if you'd like I can hunt them down later (have to get dressed now, I fear).

AmyLiz, I apply BPAL with a Q-tip. Trust PMM over me, though.

There are many instructions online, if you'd like I can hunt them down later (have to get dressed now, I fear).

No, no, that's cool for now. I will google myself in a little bit. And good to know about the perfumer's alcohol -- had no idea such a thing existed.

I'm in love with all my pretty scents so far. Especially Hurricane and Moon Rose.

I'm still bitter towards everyone who can wear BPAL oils and have them smell the way they ought, since on me every single BPAL oil I've tried has turned to Play-Doh smell within minutes. Bah.

Hey Katie B, we tried having a group of strong people lift the old shed on a flat bed to move it, but it didn't work out. We took it all apart and put it back together. This time is more complex because we are rebuilding it smaller. Still many of the components are nearly 20 years old, which has sentimental value to me. The original shed was built by DH#2 and two of my nephews. 2 of those 3 are gone now but I still remember them building the shed fondly. Brendon is sweet to preserve as much of it as he can for me.