Tuesday, September 30, 2008

And the moral is the same: slow and steady wins the race.

The Tortoise and the Hare. And the moral is the same: slow and steady wins the race. Focus on the task at hand, single-mindedly see it through, and the gold can be yours!

After an almost gruelling summer of trying to get my car fixed, my mission has finally been accomplished. I finally got my check from doing an MTV event at Six Flags. That money was used to get my knock sensor on my car, which was causing my check engine light to be on. This was causing my car from passing inspection. The problem was that when my car was due for inspection, someone had hit my car while I was at a Big Brother and The Holding Company concert. I guess that is Murphy's Law in effect. 

I only had basic coverage on my car and was lucky enough to get that fixed by Rick's Auto Body. Which you can read about that in this earlier post.

I had planned on getting the check engine light fixed and had went to the local auto part store so that they could hook up the scanner to my car to find out the code(s) that was keeping my check engine light on and to find out if it needed to be special ordered and how much it would be. It was $93.44 including tax. So, I knew to put aside that much money to get the part. Today was the day to get it. When I called the store and spoke to someone there, they recommended me to a local place that I had no idea about. East Coast Swappers is the hidden gem in Springfield, MA. 


I took pictures and will be posting them within the next day or two. So, make sure to check them out in my flickr.

East Coast Swappers is a local business in Springfield, MA and they fix mostly Subaru's. The racing ones, even. Did you know that in Connecticut and New York, they have courses you can race and drift? I had no idea, until today. I bought my knock sensor from them, which they pulled off one of their spare engines. How cool is that? They saved me $44.00. I brought it home and thought we could change it, but you need a torque wrench, which we do not own. So I called them back and told them I did not have a torque wrench to do this. He told me if I came back at 3, they would put it on for $20.00. This was still $24 cheaper than if I had bought that one part from the store. 

Going there is like the shop in the movie, The Fast And The Furious. They had about 5 racing cars in there, all supped up, working on them. Either fixing what was wrong with them or adding in the extras to make the cars faster. I guess they install turbos and whatever you want to make your Subaru's performance even better and faster.

I called up Welker's Gulf Station today to find out how much inspection stickers were. I thought they were $35 and Shawn thought it was $50. In Massachusetts, they are $29.00. So the money they saved me, I am going to be able to get my inspection sticker. A much appreciated and big thank you to all the guys at East Coast Swappers. You have no idea...how much you saved me!

I talked to my friend, Jessica today. She lives in Mississippi. She told me that in MS, inspection stickers are $5. I wish they were that cheap here. I don't know why the price difference. She also told me that cigarettes there are under $5.00, as well. 



Mission Accomplished: Got the knock sensor, got it installed, check engine light off and Petco done. Check. What's left? Inspection. The Bad News: It sounds like I have an exhaust leak.
On my way to get a knock sensor to fix my check engine light! And then off to work for 1 hour @ Petco. To be continued...the inspection sticker :)

Sunday, September 28, 2008

Free Audiobook and 25 free songs...

Looking for free music or an audiobook? Maybe you should check out this offer. From what I gathered when I read this is, you get to download one free audiobook and as a bonus, 25 free songs. All you have to do is download your free audiobook today and take two weeks to decide if you like eMusic. If you're not 100% satisfied simply cancel before your trial period ends and there's absolutely no cost. Keep the FREE audiobook as a gift just for checking out eMusic. How cool is that?

WORKS WITH THE iPOD®, ZUNE® OR ANY MP3 PLAYER  /  CHOOSE FROM OVER 1,750 AUDIOBOOKS FROM TOP AUTHORS

Download your FREE audiobook today and take two weeks to decide if you like eMusic. If you're not 100% satisfied simply cancel before your trial period ends and there's absolutely no cost. Keep the FREE audiobook as a gift just for checking out eMusic.

Mohegan Sun Player's Club

Did you know that if you have a Mohegan Sun Player's Club Card, you can use the points=$$ on the card for gas at their gas station, stores and restaraunts? I am telling you this because if you are going to go and spend the money to get there and then spend the money to play, why not use the money they give you to balance it off? You will probably need gas anyways, so, why not?

Player's Club

Be rewarded for every credit or chip you wager! Sign up for a free Mohegan Sun Player's Club membership and use your card to earn valuable club points.

Plus gain access to exclusive private player's lounges, casino host services and a monthly subscription to the insider online e-newsletter for the latest information on upcoming events and promotions.

Earn & Redeem Points

How to earn points:


Slots and Video Poker

To earn points, insert your card into the reader on any Slot or Video Poker machine. You'll immediately begin earning points for play. In order to receive credit, your point balance and greeting must be displayed. If the reader doesn't greet you, reinsert the card until it does, or go to any Player's Club booth for assistance.

Table Games

When playing Table Games, simply present your Player's Club card prior to each play session. Points are earned based upon your average bet and length of play.

Race Book

Use your card every time you place a wager at the Race Book window, Autotote or Tiny Tim to earn points based upon the amount of your wager.

Keno

Use your Player's Club card to earn points while you play Keno. Simply present your card to any Keno representative.


How to redeem your points:


The Shops at Mohegan Sun, Kids Quest, food and beverage outlets and Mohegan Sun Mobil Gas Station:

Simply place your Player's Club card in any machine and input your personal PIN number on the keypad provided.

Sit-down restaurants, concerts and sporting events:

Simply present your card with valid identification and points will be automatically debited from your account. Be sure to check your point balance prior to redemption by inserting your card in any Slot or Video Poker machine and viewing the reader display or by checking your points online.

An Ode To My Friends:

I went to my friend, Sarah's house today with the kids. She and her husband went to Las Vegas to get married. Today was the party for friends and family to celebrate with them. It was about an hour drive, so that gave me plenty of time to think...I burned three cd's. 

I got The Pussycat Dolls - Doll Domination, Leona Lewis - Spirit and The New Kids On The Block - The Block. They were actually great songs to listen to. The kids and I enjoyed it, so much so, that I actually have one of the PCD songs playing in my head, still. I meant that in a good way.

So, we hung out and introduced ourselves to those who didn't know us. Everyone was eating and drinking, but since I was drving, I only ate and had non-alcoholic beverages for the night. 
Sarah was pretty much busy here and there, which is not a bad thing. We all have to do it, it's part of entertaining. We talked while she was doing her thing.
And as usual, the time comes when you plan your exit and say your goodbyes. This is the part that really sucks, because anyone who really knows me, knows that I don't like the word goodbye or bye. That means it is too final. I like to say see you later or talk to you later, cya and so on.
Usually when you hear me say that, it is because I am on auto-pilot with words. If you ever worked retail and have been on auto-pilot with your words, you may have found yourself messing up and saying have a good night, when it is daytime, because you were so used to saying one thing?
On the drive back to home, I was getting upset with myself for being really bad with connecting with other people. I am awful at sending cards and invites, and even worse at sending thank you's. I have a hard time returning calls, I don't really know why. Probably because I don't have the attention span to just sit there with something held to my head for long periods of time. Alot of times, I don't really know what to say or talk about. Honestly, I really think I have a boring life. Everyone asks me how I am doing, what have I been up to. And my answer is always the same boring answer. I always wish that I had something exciting to respond with, but I never know what to say or no matter how boring it is, make it sound wicked exciting. I am pretty much bad with emailing, although, that is the easiest way for me to contact friends. If it weren't for email, everyone would probably think that I fell off the bottom of the earth. 
I found myself thinking on my way home tonight about how I hadn't seen her in about 2 years and how we have known each other for so long (since Kindergarten or 4 years old) and still have kept in touch with my bad friend etiquette? And then I was upset because I realized that I am like that with everyone and how I didn't want to be with my friends like people usually are with family. You only see them at births and deaths and weddings if you are lucky. 
So, when I got home, I posted a comment on 5 friend's myspace/facebooks and I sent 3 emails, 2 of which I wrote what I was thankful for.
One of the emails was written to Sarah, but as I re-read it, thought it would be more appropriate to send to all of my friends, since this is what I think for all of them. 
So, here goes an Ode To My Friends:

Hey Sarah, Just wanted to say thanks, the kids and I had a great time, I wish Shawn could have made it, he would of had a great time, too. I Loved the theme and the cakes...and everything! You and Shannon really know how to throw a party. :) I can't wait for us to get together again. It's times like these that I find myself driving home and getting upset with myself for not contacting my friends more often than I actually do. Forgive me? Talk to you soon, ~Jeanne
Just got home from Sarah's party in Worcester about 20 mins. ago. Had a great time, thanks Sarah and Shannon! Can't wait to see you guys again soon!!

Saturday, September 27, 2008

WTF...my cream in my coffee just curdled up like feta cheese. Just bought the cream yesterday.

Friday, September 26, 2008

Catching up online and avoiding the rain.

Computer, Interrupted

Most of you aren't aware of this, but my computer has been shutting itself off alot lately. This was Shawn's computer prior to it becoming mine. I have no idea why it does this, but it always seems to shut off while I am in the middle of a post or uploading photos. Finally after the One Millionth time of doing this, it finally opened a browser window and said:
Blue screen error caused by a device or driver
You received this message because a hardware device, its driver, or related software has caused a blue screen error. This type of error means the computer has shut down abruptly to protect itself from potential data corruption or loss.
In this case, we were unable to detect the specific device or driver that caused the problem.
Troubleshooting

The following troubleshooting steps might prevent the blue screen error from recurring. Try them in the order given. If one step does not solve the problem, then move on to the next one.
Step 1: Download and install the latest updates and device drivers for your computer
Step 2: Remove any new hardware or software to isolate the cause of the blue screen
Step 3: Scan your computer for viruses
Step 4: Check your hard disk for errors
Step 5: Restore your computer to an earlier state

Advanced troubleshooting

Corrupted error report
Unfortunately, the error report you submitted is corrupted and cannot be analyzed. Corrupted error reports are rare. They can be caused by hardware or software problems, and they usually indicate a serious problem with your computer.
Troubleshooting

Scenario 1: Click here if this is the first corrupted error report for this computer
Scenario 2: Click here if the corrupted error reports are persistent on this computer


Problem caused by computer hardware
You received this message because hardware or software in your computer caused Windows to shut down unexpectedly and restart. This is a serious problem, commonly referred to as a stop error or blue screen.
Troubleshooting

If you have received this error more than once, we recommend that you do the following:
Back up your files to avoid data loss in case of a complete hardware failure.
Contact the original manufacturer of your computer to determine the specific component which is failing.
How do I find my computer manufacturer (OEM)?
Additional technical information


Corrupted error report
Unfortunately, the error report you submitted is corrupted and cannot be analyzed. Corrupted error reports are rare. They can be caused by hardware or software problems, and they usually indicate a serious problem with your computer.
Troubleshooting

Scenario 1: Click here if this is the first corrupted error report for this computer
Scenario 2: Click here if the corrupted error reports are persistent on this computer



Problem caused by antivirus software
Although we have not determined the specific cause of this problem, we know the problem was caused by antivirus software.
Recommendation

To try to solve this problem, follow these steps. One step might solve the problem, but if it doesn't, then go on to the next step.
Update your antivirus software
Check for multiple antivirus programs running on your computer
Contact the antivirus manufacturer
To see a list of Microsoft and third-party solutions for spyware, adware, and antivirus software, go to the following website online.
Security software: Downloads and trials


Problem caused by computer hardware
You received this message because hardware or software in your computer caused Windows to shut down unexpectedly and restart. This is a serious problem, commonly referred to as a stop error or blue screen.
Troubleshooting

If you have received this error more than once, we recommend that you do the following:
Back up your files to avoid data loss in case of a complete hardware failure.
Contact the original manufacturer of your computer to determine the specific component which is failing.
How do I find my computer manufacturer (OEM)?
Additional technical information

Is it possible that my computer just cannot handle the web 2.0? Too many pictures and widgets and stuff to keep up with?

Computer, Interrupted

Most of you aren't aware of this, but my computer has been shutting itself off alot lately. This was Shawn's computer prior to it becoming mine. I have no idea why it does this, but it always seems to shut off while I am in the middle of a post or uploading photos. Finally after the One Millionth time of doing this, it finally opened a browser window and said:
Blue screen error caused by a device or driver
You received this message because a hardware device, its driver, or related software has caused a blue screen error. This type of error means the computer has shut down abruptly to protect itself from potential data corruption or loss.
In this case, we were unable to detect the specific device or driver that caused the problem.
Troubleshooting

The following troubleshooting steps might prevent the blue screen error from recurring. Try them in the order given. If one step does not solve the problem, then move on to the next one.
Step 1: Download and install the latest updates and device drivers for your computer
Step 2: Remove any new hardware or software to isolate the cause of the blue screen
Step 3: Scan your computer for viruses
Step 4: Check your hard disk for errors
Step 5: Restore your computer to an earlier state

Advanced troubleshooting

Corrupted error report
Unfortunately, the error report you submitted is corrupted and cannot be analyzed. Corrupted error reports are rare. They can be caused by hardware or software problems, and they usually indicate a serious problem with your computer.
Troubleshooting

Scenario 1: Click here if this is the first corrupted error report for this computer
Scenario 2: Click here if the corrupted error reports are persistent on this computer


Problem caused by computer hardware
You received this message because hardware or software in your computer caused Windows to shut down unexpectedly and restart. This is a serious problem, commonly referred to as a stop error or blue screen.
Troubleshooting

If you have received this error more than once, we recommend that you do the following:
Back up your files to avoid data loss in case of a complete hardware failure.
Contact the original manufacturer of your computer to determine the specific component which is failing.
How do I find my computer manufacturer (OEM)?
Additional technical information


Corrupted error report
Unfortunately, the error report you submitted is corrupted and cannot be analyzed. Corrupted error reports are rare. They can be caused by hardware or software problems, and they usually indicate a serious problem with your computer.
Troubleshooting

Scenario 1: Click here if this is the first corrupted error report for this computer
Scenario 2: Click here if the corrupted error reports are persistent on this computer



Problem caused by antivirus software
Although we have not determined the specific cause of this problem, we know the problem was caused by antivirus software.
Recommendation

To try to solve this problem, follow these steps. One step might solve the problem, but if it doesn't, then go on to the next step.
Update your antivirus software
Check for multiple antivirus programs running on your computer
Contact the antivirus manufacturer
To see a list of Microsoft and third-party solutions for spyware, adware, and antivirus software, go to the following website online.
Security software: Downloads and trials


Problem caused by computer hardware
You received this message because hardware or software in your computer caused Windows to shut down unexpectedly and restart. This is a serious problem, commonly referred to as a stop error or blue screen.
Troubleshooting

If you have received this error more than once, we recommend that you do the following:
Back up your files to avoid data loss in case of a complete hardware failure.
Contact the original manufacturer of your computer to determine the specific component which is failing.
How do I find my computer manufacturer (OEM)?
Additional technical information

Is it possible that my computer just cannot handle the web 2.0? Too many pictures and widgets and stuff to keep up with?

Thursday, September 25, 2008

Corrupted error report

Corrupted error report

Unfortunately, the error report you submitted is corrupted and cannot be analyzed. Corrupted error reports are rare. They can be caused by hardware or software problems, and they usually indicate a serious problem with your computer.

Troubleshooting



Scenario 1: Click here if this is the first corrupted error report for this computer

Scenario 2: Click here if the corrupted error reports are persistent on this computer


Problem caused by computer hardware

Problem caused by computer hardware

You received this message because hardware or software in your computer caused Windows to shut down unexpectedly and restart. This is a serious problem, commonly referred to as a stop error or blue screen.

Troubleshooting



If you have received this error more than once, we recommend that you do the following:

  1. Back up your files to avoid data loss in case of a complete hardware failure.

  2. Contact the original manufacturer of your computer to determine the specific component which is failing.

    How do I find my computer manufacturer (OEM)?

Additional technical information


Problem caused by antivirus software


Problem caused by antivirus software

Although we have not determined the specific cause of this problem, we know the problem was caused by antivirus software.

Recommendation



To try to solve this problem, follow these steps. One step might solve the problem, but if it doesn't, then go on to the next step.

  1. Update your antivirus software

  2. Check for multiple antivirus programs running on your computer

  3. Contact the antivirus manufacturer

To see a list of Microsoft and third-party solutions for spyware, adware, and antivirus software, go to the following website online.

Security software: Downloads and trials



Corrupted error report

Corrupted error report

Unfortunately, the error report you submitted is corrupted and cannot be analyzed. Corrupted error reports are rare. They can be caused by hardware or software problems, and they usually indicate a serious problem with your computer.

Troubleshooting



Scenario 1: Click here if this is the first corrupted error report for this computer

Scenario 2: Click here if the corrupted error reports are persistent on this computer


Stop Error

Problem caused by computer hardware

You received this message because hardware or software in your computer caused Windows to shut down unexpectedly and restart. This is a serious problem, commonly referred to as a stop error or blue screen.

Troubleshooting



If you have received this error more than once, we recommend that you do the following:

  1. Back up your files to avoid data loss in case of a complete hardware failure.

  2. Contact the original manufacturer of your computer to determine the specific component which is failing.

    How do I find my computer manufacturer (OEM)?

Additional technical information


Computer Corrupted

Corrupted error report

Unfortunately, the error report you submitted is corrupted and cannot be analyzed. Corrupted error reports are rare. They can be caused by hardware or software problems, and they usually indicate a serious problem with your computer.

Troubleshooting



Scenario 1: Click here if this is the first corrupted error report for this computer

Scenario 2: Click here if the corrupted error reports are persistent on this computer




Why is my computer blue?

Most of you aren't aware of this, but my computer has been shutting itself off alot lately. This was Shawn's computer prior to it becoming mine. I have no idea why it does this, but it always seems to shut off while I am in the middle of a post or uploading photos. Finally after the One Millionth time of doing this, it finally opened a browser window and said:

Blue screen error caused by a device or driver

You received this message because a hardware device, its driver, or related software has caused a blue screen error. This type of error means the computer has shut down abruptly to protect itself from potential data corruption or loss.

In this case, we were unable to detect the specific device or driver that caused the problem.

Troubleshooting



The following troubleshooting steps might prevent the blue screen error from recurring. Try them in the order given. If one step does not solve the problem, then move on to the next one.

 Step 1: Download and install the latest updates and device drivers for your computer

 Step 2: Remove any new hardware or software to isolate the cause of the blue screen

 Step 3: Scan your computer for viruses

 Step 4: Check your hard disk for errors

 Step 5: Restore your computer to an earlier state


 Advanced troubleshooting


Wednesday, September 24, 2008

The Perfect Shopportunity

I have started a new category called "Shopportunities". This category will be for deals, sales or anything retail related.
As a mostly stay at home mom and a sometimes working mom of 2, I have managed to find a few great deals in my time and still stumble upon many. The only problem with that is I always wish I had more money!

So, in celebration of the new category, the first shopportunity will be:
Burger King will give you three free kids' meals for each child registered on their Club BK site. Check the mailer you get - you'll see in the fine print you can get three meals, not just one. Plus you'll get a coupon for another free meal on your child's birthday! With the additional offerings Burger King now has in their kids meals like apples and mac & cheese, Burger King isn't near as unhealthy as it was in the past. Check it out at Club BK.

Monday, September 22, 2008

I have the house all to myself. Listening to my music, my way. Doing housework, chores and miscellaneous what-not's. The only calls I am taking today are from Mel, Jac, Sissy and Shawn. If you are not them, please leave a message. If you are them, I expect to hear from you!
The kids are at school and alas, Shawn has finally left the house for work today...(This is rare, since he works from home.) I am enjoying listening to MY music as loud or low as I want (I normally have to share or have it down so that he can make calls). I am doing housework, chores and miscellaneous what-not's. The ONLY calls I am taking today are from Mel, Jac, Sissy and Shawn. If you are not them, please leave a message!

Sunday, September 21, 2008

Just got home from Kevin's Birthday Party and going out for a drink, McDonald's fries and a coffee.

Friday, September 19, 2008

Karma, err...Twitter-Karma, that is

Being a big fan and believer in Karma, I HAD to check out Twitter Karma.
It told me: Showing 881 out of 881
[ 610 only following, 119 mutual friends, 152 only followers ]
And that's when it hit me. At first, I didn't want to follow everyone because well, honestly...I was to lazy to add each and every person. But then after checking out my Twitter Karma, I realized, how selfish of me and one sided of me. That was very unlike me. I am the one who loves anything and everything about social networking, and here I am not reciprocating back to my readers. That was very rude and inconsiderate and so, to each and every one of you, I apologize.
So now that I feel better releasing my thoughts and conscience into the universe, I have now improved my karma...hopefully.
Already, almost immediately after selecting follow on my follower's twitter(s), I have 5 direct messages from them thanking me for following them. When in fact, it should have been me to thank them.
That was a pretty cool experience.

Fish Pedicures...

I read a blog today that talked about a new kind of pedicure called Fish Pedicures.
Apparently in Northern Virginia, it is "unsanitary" to use razors to shave off the dead skin. So this one owner of a salon came up with the idea to use a special kind of fish called garra rufa or also known as Doctor Fish. They were first popular in Turkey and in some Asian countries.
The owner was not sure if the fish would survive in the warm water temperature necessary for a comfortable foot bath, but he decided to try it out anyways.
The owner said "the hot water in which the fish thrive doesn't support much plant or aquatic life, so
they learned to feed on whatever food sources were available -- including dead,
flaking skin. They leave live skin alone because, without teeth, they can't bite it off."
They interviewed a podiatrist who had never heard of this before. Here is what the podiatrist said: "Dennis Arnold, a podiatrist who four years ago established the International Pedicure Association, said he had never heard of the treatment and
doubts it will become widespread.
"I think most people would be afraid of it," he said."
Here is what some customers described it as:
"the best pedicure I ever had", another woman described the tingling sensation created by the toothless fish: "It kind of feels like your foot's asleep", another woman admitted she was nervous as she prepared for her first fish pedicure. But her apprehension dissolved into laughter after she put her feet in the tank and the fish swarmed to her toes. "It's a little ticklish, actually."
It doesn't sound too painful to me. In fact, I think this is actually a really great idea. I would love to see how it works for manicures as well as for pedicures. Hopefully I can find something that cool around here. If/When I do, I will be sure to let you all know what I thought of it myself and where the heck is the hidden gem!
Babysitting. Daniela and Jacob are having a sleepover, AlleyCat and Trevor.
Commenting on this Mashable article : http://ping.fm/P4XIl
I am sad to see Summer leaving...it's getting chilly in the mornings...I'm not a cold weather person.

Thursday, September 18, 2008

Just got home from a birthday party in Leominster...a long-ass ride. 1 1/2 hours each way, but it was good to be there!

Wednesday, September 17, 2008

Sharpie Lamborghini

Have you checked out the Sharpie Lamborghini yet?
Such a great job on creativity and artwork! Like, OMG!! :)
Time flies...The TooheyBugs are home, homework, dinner and then bed. So many things to do in a day, so little time.
I'm heading out to D&D with my friend, Tammy for a nice cold iced coffee! Yummy!!
If you want one, call my cell! ;)

Tuesday, September 16, 2008

At least I know who I was when I got up this morning, but I think I must have been changed several times since then ~Alice In Wonderland~
Jeanné is on Auto-Pilot today

Monday, September 15, 2008

My thought for the day:
Nothing's going to change destiny.
Whatever's meant to be, will work out perfectly.

Helpful Kids

My thought for the day:

The first place I am going for Fall Foliage Photo Shootin'

The first place I am going for Fall Foliage Photo Shootin' is going to be The Quabbin Resevoir.
A great video has been made:


The Quabbin Reservoir











The Quabbin is such a great place to visit. Not only is it man made, it is incredible. The sky is so clear, the water is as bright and blue ans the sky. Birds flying through the clean air and the sounds all around are as clear as day. Such a peaceful and beautiful place. When I was a kid, my family used to go there and bring lunch to have their. After eating, we would walk around and explore. We actually considered having our wedding here. I was ecstatic about it and Shawn was even interested. But then he decided against it because they didn't close the place for weddings. I didn't care, either way.
This will be the first year that I am actually go Fall Foliage Photo Shootin', but I can't imagine a better place for it. I have a few other places in mind, too. But let's get through this one first!  :)

Sunday, September 14, 2008

Is grateful for her friends...thanks to each and every one of you.

Saturday, September 13, 2008

I posted a whole blog entry. And where did it go??
I will try to post about it again later. It bugs me because I know it won't have the same quality, quirkiness and substance.
I guess it just wasn't meant to be written that way.
This weekend is overscheduled, but somehow I always make it work.

Tuesday, September 9, 2008

How Young is Too Young: Latchkey Kids & Sleepovers

I am so glad that someone wrote an article about this. I have recently been wondering about that. What are the rules or laws. What are other parent's views or the "norm" on this issue. What do other parents do about this? These were some of the questions that I was asking myself. Since my children are 6 years old and 8 years old, I knew I still had time to wonder about this. But I also know that the time is coming quicker than I think, when I will have to make a decision on this issue. As Sheila puts it the best:
"While SafeKids.org urges parents not to leave any child under 12 years old home alone, many of us do allow our children to go latchkey for a few hours between school and the end of our workdays, or when we need to run errands. For each of us, it's a subjective and deeply personal choice that we make as parents based on the resourcefulness, maturity, and comfort levels of our own kids."
Thanks Sheila. That was the best way to put it, without stepping on parent's toes and feelings. That was put in a gentle, caring,  classy way. Read on to hear what she says and the resources that she gives to make this situation as safe as possible. What do you think about this issue? Stop by and leave your comments, suggestions and input.


"September 08, 2008

Ages & Stages: How Young is Too Young?

The other day, our little guy was begging me to see a PG-13 movie. He is only 8, so my immediate response was, "No way." But, then I thought about how I allowed him to watch Revenge of the Sith, which was also PG-13. (Like many boys his age, he's a die-hard Star Wars fan.)

This was the first week of school for many, which means another year older for the kids, who'll soon be pushing for more independence. So where do we draw the line in order to stay consistent? And how do you know when your child is ready, or mature enough?

What are your ages and stages for letting your kids stay home alone? Go for sleepovers? Bike to a friend's house, or take public transportation un-chaperoned? And, if you have more than one child, are you consistent when applying your age limits? 

Our Senior Editorial Director, Felice, just faced this dilemma with her 10-year-old son. Felice and her kids live in a quiet, upscale neighborhood about a mile from downtown Boston, but too close for comfort to the universities and major arteries. While her younger daughter is still in extended day through her school, Felice was nervous about letting her son turn "latchkey" for another two years (Safe Kids USA urges parents not to leave any child under 12 years old home alone.)

Luckily, she found a happy solution through Care.com: a thirty-something "minder," who can be her son's surrogate "older brother," picking him up at school, hanging out with him for a few hours, and driving him to sports practice, all while not making her son feel like he's in need of a babysitter.

Check out these topics and sources for more information, or join the conversation by posting a comment! We'd love to hear your experiences and your "rules of thumb" for ages and stages with your own kids (or those you care for.)

Latchkey Kids / Staying Home Alone

While SafeKids.org urges parents not to leave any child under 12 years old home alone, many of us do allow our children to go latchkey for a few hours between school and the end of our workdays, or when we need to run errands. For each of us, it's a subjective and deeply personal choice that we make as parents based on the resourcefulness, maturity, and comfort levels of our own kids.

If you do decide to let your child stay home alone, go over these safety tips from the National Crime Prevention Council (home of McGruff the Crime Dog) with them first:

  • Be discreet: Don't let anyone know that you're home alone.
  • Lock up: Learn how to properly secure your home so you can get out, but no one can get in.
  • Know the numbers: Review the emergency contact list and know how and who to call in case of an emergency. Choose a nearby neighbor as a "safe house."
  • Communicate: Check in with your parents when you get home, and call for permission before leaving to go to the park, biking with friends, or to another friend's home.
  • Be alert: If something looks suspicious when you get home, like a broken window or the front door is wide open, don't go inside. Go to your safe house.

Check out this MSNBC article with Dr. Ruth Peters, one of America's favorite advice columnists, a regular contributor to The Today Show, and a clinical psychologist by training, for more tips on raising latchkey kids.

Slumber Parties

Slumber parties (or sleepovers) are as American as apple pie, and just as hard to do really well. According to AZCentral.com, home of The Arizona Republic newspaper, slumber parties are most popular among kids 8 to 14 years old, although they can begin at younger ages and stretch out until college.

So, how do you know when your kids are ready to sleep over at a friend's house? And what should you ensure before they go?

  • Start with family members. Your children will be more comfortable at their cousins' house, or with their grandparents, than at another family's home, allowing them to ease into sleeping apart from you. It also allows them to learn to shake up their nighttime routines.
  • Know your child. Some kids are ready for sleepovers earlier than others--there isn't one true age to begin hosting or sending your kids off to slumber parties. Make sure that they are polite and respectful enough to abide by another family's rules, and that they are confident enough to make it through the night without your support.
  • Know yourself. How comfortable are you with your child sleeping over at another home? Make sure to do your homework before the night of the event, ensuring that the other parents will be home, confirming details about activities, any group excursions, and timing for pick-ups in the morning. Review "the rules" and emergency information with the other parents, and make sure you trust them and their judgment.

What are your family's rules, ages and stages for allowing kids to stay home alone? Slumber parties? Biking to a friend's house un-chaperoned, or taking public transportation?

Share them with the Care.com community by posting a comment!

Cheers,
Sheila

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Comments

As a father of a seven year old, I must tell you: if you watched the film and you think that it would really affect his perspective on life, then just have a conversation and ask him about the film. Talking to him you would figure out a lot of things about his views. Sometimes you have to cross "the line" so your kid can have a real view of the world. Communicate with him so you can help shape that view, do not block it! The world is what it is.
Too young? Well, you are the parent, no one knows your kid better than you,don't draw lines you can't explain.

As a parent of three, ages 17,10 and 9, I often wonder myself when to let them do things on their own. My 17 yr old has special needs, but they are mild so it was hard for me to let him do things. My 10 yr old is searching for independence and we are letting him do little things such as ride his bike with a friend to the ice cream shop or to the gas station. He still can't go fishing with a friend by himself because I feel they need to be supervised. We also got the restricted cell phones for our two youngest to use to keep in touch with us in case of emergency.

Determining the right age for children to watch certain movies is often very dependent on the child. That said, does anyone have a recommendation on the right age for watching the Harry Potter movies?

Well... as a mother, it's your kid, it's your decision, whatever you feel is right. Me.. ha, my kid will not be left home alone until he is 19, because I don't need trouble. Sleepovers, well... depends on the parents. Bike to a friend's house? Why bike, I can bring him. And the whole transportation, I say no, ask daddy. I'm a very strict mother, because I grew up not too long ago, and I know what it's like.

As a former latchkey kid myself and single mom of a seven yr old boy. I see him becoming a latchkey kid too. It all comes down to how much you trust your child to do as you tell them. I have left my son home alone for 5-10 min while I go to the apartment office, to check the mail, or even to make a quick trip to the corner store. I make sure to explain the rules to him. He's not to open the door to anyone and he knows not to cook anything. Like everyone else has said, you know your child and your childs maturity. Only you can decide what is best or what responsibilities your child can handle.

My question is what is the "legal" age for children to be home alone after school in Oklahoma? My children are very mature for their age but they're only 9 and 8.

When we were growing up, they did not have PG 13 when I was that age. So a lot of the movies today that are PG 13 were PG movies back then or were rated R if it was real nudity and very bad language. We as parents want the best for our children so we need to know if the movie is suited for him or her before they see it. If my parents or friends see the movie before my child wants to see that movie, I would asked if it is good for her to watch it. 
With latchkey kids, a parent has to know the laws first in their state on what age is it considered to be OK to leave them home for a couple of hours. It depends on the maturity of the child if you can trust them to listen and behave while you are not there.

My sons are 11 and 7 and I will leave them home alone for a couple of hours even if it is to go out to dinner with my husband. You have to know your children and know if they are responsible enough to handle ANY situation. Each child will react differently to a stressful situation. Ask your child. Give him scenarios, even scary ones. I know in IN there is not an age limit. Use your own discretion.

Hi Elisha,

According to SafeKids.org, the national guideline is not to leave children under 12 home alone. This page on Wiki Answers quotes the Lawson, OK police department about your state in particular:

"In Oklahoma, there is no fixed age when a child can be left alone. Some are unable to take care of themselves even though they may be older than other children." - Lawton (Oklahoma) Police Department

It also cites a California agency that supports allowing children as young as 8 years old to be left home alone for a few hours at a time, such as after school.

Here's the link:
http://wiki.answers.com/Q/What_are_the_Oklahoma_latchkey_laws

But again, my strong advice is that you know your child best and if you think your kids are ready, just make sure to follow the proper safety steps. If you're unsure about their readiness, then I would suggest hiring a caregiver for those hours after school, at least to start, as Felice has done with her 10 year old son. Try posting a job on Care.com in either Child Care or Care Gigs to find the right person in your area.

Cheers,

Sheila

Wow! What a great article and great comments from all the readers. I am thankful for reading this and someone having the guts to write about this issue. You are right, it is a deep and personal choice/issue each one of us decides as parents.
For myself, my children are still too young...for me(6 and 8), but this has a been a question I have been wondering about in the back of my head...trying to prepare for when that situation does arrive...which will come before I know it.
Thanks to everyone!