Recent content by Rip_VanWinkle

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    Drug testing?

    I wouldn't go that far just because some other people are doing it. However, if I see changes in behavior or other problems, I would consider testing him in order to confront him and put him in a program. That is if I can't get the whole story by talking to him. Hopefully this will never happen.
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    Movie collections?

    We have tons of DVDs, but most of the things we have are classics. I have the original Get Smart, as well as some Twilight Zone and Star Trek.
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    Summer Vacation

    We are planning our vacation. We were told that we could rent an apartment for less than it would cost to get a hotel for a week. Does anybody know where can this be rented from and that it won't break the bank?
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    Teacher conferences

    I have gone to report card conference a few times, but I have to admit that my wife is the one that gets to be more involved in school matters. It is difficult to get away from work at times. However, I make sure I go to plays and other performances.
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    What first-time mothers need

    My brother is going through this right now. I keep telling him he needs to do more for his wife. She gets really depress thinking she is not doing things right. First time mothers need lots of reassurance. They also need a little me time, and they need to feel they are still attractive and loved.
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    Taxes season over

    How did it go? I have to admit that I left it to the last minute (like always :-). I just have everything ready to send via e-file. It seems that we are doing pretty good and don't have to pay that much. I don't know why the extended the filing date to the 18th but I am happy they did. Did...
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    Donald Trump for president?

    By the interviews I have seen of him talking about it, I think he really is going to run. I wouldn't vote for him because I am just not a republican. However, I do think he has some good ideas to get us out of the whole we seem to be rapidly sinking.
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    Scrabble

    We love playing Scrabble. We are very competitive, and we sometimes have championships with another family. Since we have different ages, we try to make things even by playing in teams with even group of ages (1 parent, 1 child).
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    What kinds of things concern you?

    My kids are pretty mellow. My biggest concern right now is bullying. It seems that every time I look around there is another kid being pushed around or cyber bullied.
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    Mothers vs Fathers

    In our house, Mom has the final word. However, our kids know that we always work together to figure out what is fair in our house. We always present a united front which is the most important part.
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    Lenten Fridays

    We also observe the traditions. What I consider more important than the no meat is the abstaining from something we like during Lent. Just think about it. A vegetarian wouldn't feel anything from abstaining of meat during Lent or any other time. I am trying to make do without soda during Lent...
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    Like the first time....

    Even though we are expecting our fourth child, it feels as if it were the first time. I love my wife, but sometimes the hormones get the best of her. :-) I sometimes wonder how did I survive the previous pregnancies. Do you feel the same?
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    My kids are so cute

    You have taught them well. Kids learn by watching their role models, and it is fantastic that they want to use their money to give something for their baby brother/sister. You have a reason to be proud.
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    Music & Schools

    I am wondering if all your schools have arts and music offered to your kids. We are lucky that our school have a wonderful performing arts program even though they don't offer band. I have heard from my friends that in some of their schools the arts department have been disbanded. How about your...
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    Balancing Family & Overtime

    I think we all have been through this a few times in our lives, especially lately with all the economical land mines out there. I personally try to make sure to at least be present at every other of the kids activities. I also try to always be home to have dinner with them at least 5 times a...
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