November 2008 Archives

Each year leading up to Thanksgiving, the iVillage message boards buzz with discussions of gratitude as our community takes time to share the things they appreciate in their lives. Most were grateful for their families, their health and homes. Several said they were also thankful for stable jobs and income in the rough economy. Many also cited their iVillage support network of friends as something to celebrate. From the serious to the sublime, here's a sampling of responses from across the iVillage community:

I am so very grateful for my husband. I am going to try harder to make sure he knows how much I love and appreciate him. I am thankful to be an American. We face tough times but I know we can muster our spirit to get us on the right track.  -- thebetty

I am thankful to my girlfriends (here and IRL) and my Mom and MIL for teaching me how to be a parent and then for knowing how to be a mommy. I am so thankful for Sara's smile. I am thankful for the Phillies winning the world series - goodness knows the rest of our teams stink!! -- cl-andibear

I'm thankful for: those ladies here who entertain me when I'm feeling like I'm completely lonely; our house, because it's something that we felt we couldn't reach at our age but it's our present now; the fact that we're financially ok and not in trouble -- cobixns

I'm thankful for my health, for the health of my loved ones, and for the many, many wonderful friends who have come into my life and have blessed me richly with such love.  -- mmshortcake

I am grateful that I didn't ring my child's neck when I saw thong underwear coming out of her backside when she bent over in a pair of jeans that were extremely low rise. And I am also grateful that neither of these items were something she owned and they will be immediately returned to whichever "loose" friend she borrowed them from. -- itsme_2005

I'm thankful for my daughter's teachers, for they have demonstrated their willingness to have shared success with Maddy this year -- goldilocks3m

I am grateful my Mom taught me to cook so well, I am able to feed my family on very little money, and they think it's good! I am grateful that I took a minute to stop and get my favorite ice cream last night. -- momofmegandkate

I'm thankful for my kids' sense of humor, they make me laugh every day when I don't expect it. -- cl-nykatyrose

I'm grateful for my job and the great families I have right now. I couldn't ask for any better. -- srmagoo

I'm grateful that Barack Obama won the US presidency! The volunteer work I did was not in vain! I made a difference. Words cannot express the gratitude I have for this historic event. -- hotcarmel12

I am grateful that I am starting to "re-emerge" after my move 18 months ago. I am finding my own way of living in the space I have and it is beginning to look like home. --ladybug987

I am thankful we are still here, still healthy and while not as financially secure as we used to be, not as bad off as others. --thatyank

I'm grateful that I have a home, and that it's not in jeopardy. I'm grateful that DH and I both have jobs we enjoy and they aren't in jeopardy. I'm grateful our kids and our parents are healthy and strong. -- ginger.cookie

A roof over my head and plenty to eat. (I help at our church's lunch program and see many who have neither!) -- nottoo

My dh and I celebrated 26 years of marriage this year *and* are experiencing a renewed love for each other!  -- brenbran

I am thankful for the challenges that I am facing, which are forcing me to awake dorment dreams, goals and objectives, re-think priorities, realize that anything is possible, realize that happiness cannot be not boxed. -- bebeabordo

My creativity, being able to write and imagine. -- suffy_78

I am thankful for French Silk pie. -- beepsmomx2

I am thankful that we are maintaining our jobs and our house in this crazy economy. I am thankful that gas is below $2. -- hlong842001

I am very thankful for my wonderful and caring family, their health. Very thankful that I am married to a good man and good provider and good father. -- ptbwbarb

I'm thankful for days off when I can sleep in and take my time in the morning, just puttering around and enjoying my coffee. -- cl-mom_to_travis

 

This year I'm thankful for my family and friends, my health and prosperity, the hilarity of The Office and 30 Rock, pomegranates, good music and the chance to work with such a great community each and every day. What are you thankful for? Share it with me here and check out the gratitude discussion on our Finding Your Best Life message board. 

So we all know that those flimsy (and ubiquitous) plastic shopping bags are evil, but what is the best alternative for toting your items home? Have you purchased organic canvas totes or are you recycling your old bags and other materials to make your own? Our Eco-Friendly Living community members are weighing in on their favorite types of reusable bags:

"I use the polypropylene at the grocery store. They're easier for the cashier to use since they stand up well and attach to the bag stand which gets me out quicker. They are easier to unpack at home as well. I haven't had them long so we'll see how I feel about them when they give out." -- revolutions

"I do not like the ones the stores sell. They are very cheaply made. My mom has several that are fairly new and they started falling apart within a few uses this summer while I was doing her shopping. Most of my bags are ones that I have made myself out of cast off clothing or thrifted fabric." -- laurajane28

"Believe it or not, I use an old HUGE Army backpack for shopping. I can fit my entire order in it. I've had the bag for over 10 years. I find it much easier to put the bag on my back than fumble with tote bags." -- sillygrrl13

For more Earth-friendly bag ideas -- as well as other green products, check out the iGo Green Stuff We Love.

In these tough economic times, more and more people are finding themselves in overwhelming financial situations. Sometimes the bills and debt can pile up so much it seems like the only thing left to do is to throw in the towel and file for bankruptcy. While this can sound like a tempting way out, Carmen Wong Ulrich of CNBC's "On The Money" cautions against turning to bankrupcty as a solution for difficult, but not unresolvable, debt issues:

If you have a question you'd like Carmen to tackle, post it here in the comments or email us directly at ivcommunity@mail.ivillage.com

Watch Carmen Wong Ulrich's 'On The Money' Weeknights 9PM EST on CNBC! Find more information on coping with the economy with our Bail Yourself Out resources.

Women across the iVillage community have fallen in love... with a vampire. In case you've not been, ahem, bitten by the seemingly unstoppable sensation of Twilight, Stephenie Meyer's epic series of novels about young lovers Bella and Edward has captivated women of all ages and they're mesmerized by the story that will hit the big screen November 21. Just how big is the frenzy surrounding all things Twilight? Our community of loyal fans has been burning up the boards on this topic for some time now, but on our newly-created Twilight message board, they have posted over 2000 messages in less than a week discussing their favorite characters, scenes and sharing their anticipation for the film:

"Okay, it is almost 2:00am here on the west coast, and I can't sleep. Why, you ask? Because the movie comes out Thursday night! And I can't stop thinking about it! Seriously, what is wrong with me? Do I have the new mental illness called Twilightitis?" -- futuremrsleader

"I can't decide if I am more excited about finding out my baby's gender on Thursday or the movie on Friday! I am seriously leaning toward the movie!" -- momslovebug

 
Even married women aren't ashamed to admit they're in the market for some hot vampire romance action. So, what do their husbands think about all of this?

"The first time I read through the series, he was annoyed that I had my nose buried in a book all day and he had to hunt for clean undies." -- mrstgraham

"Well he thinks I'm nuts! He doesn't get how I lose track of space and time when I'm reading Twilight. I told him it's the same obsession that he has with Star Trek, that shut him up!" -- aprettygirl

Most of our self-proclaimed "twerds" (Twilight nerds) are planning to see the movie this weekend, and many of them are geared up to attend the midnight showing at their local theater, and are prepared to get there well in advance to get good seats:

"I am so excited!!!! I am counting down for the movie. I have read all of the books and finishing up midnight sun. I have passed the book on to six friends. Three of us are going to the movie on Friday... we even ordered shirts!" -- mom_tracyg88

"DH and I only go to the theater once a year since it is pricey, so this is my one movie this year. I think the movie will be great, but I do know I have been let down at the box office before." -- carrie-23

"I'm just looking forward to seeing if they did a good enough job. I'm praying it's not terribly cheesy. Some things just do not translate well from book to screen." -- coffeemomma

"I am just so flipping excited about it all. I want to *see* what I've been seeing in my head for two weeks. I hope that Kristen can get over her weird normal self and do Bella justice... and Edward. Oh man, I just hoping seeing him doesn't send me into labor." -- fp-sweetsarah

To celebrate Green Week, the Vacations & Trips community members are sharing how they make the effort to be more environmentally friendly on the road:

"If we are packing food with us, we use Ziploc bags as often as possible so we can reuse them during the trip. If the bag has held dry food, I will reuse it for other dry food at home later.

We always look for recycling containers on the road, like at many of the rest stops. We use them for any plastic bottles that we don't reuse. We take our aluminum home with us as we recycle that for cash -- plus, we'll pick up any that we find on the trip!" -- cl-celticmom

"We reuse linens, turn off lights, and turn off the air conditioning or heat if the weather is great. Normally we stay in condos, so we like to save the owner money." -- windshieldbug

Are you making green choices when traveling, or even traveling less due to concern over the environmental impact? Share your green travel experiences and challenges with us. Find more tips and resources for eco-friendly travel in our slideshow: The Road Less Harmful.

It can often feel like choosing the most enviromentally-friendly option can also be the most expensive, especially when shopping for organic foods and household goods. This can be frustrating for those just starting out on a more green lifestyle. There is still a prevailing feeling that going green is just too much hassle or expense. I admit, I feel like this sometimes, too. To combat that way of thinking, I just check out the great ideas iVillagers are sharing every day in our community. On our Living Simple & Green message board, cl-kellie0901 recently kicked off a discussion for iVillagers to share their tips on reducing, reusing and recycling -- all while saving money! They've shared over 50 tips so far, including these small changes you can do right now (yes you!):

"Install a programmable thermostat. There are inexpensive models available and they are simple to install. Set the thermostat for lower temps when you aren't home and when you are sleeping, and for higher temps when you want the house comfortable. What little you spend on the thermostat will be earned back in energy savings." -- revolutions

"Make at least one main meal a week meatless. Meat, especially beef, is expensive and not very enviro-friendly." -- laurajane28

"Go back to good old bar soap. You use it up and it's gone, while bath & shower gels leave you with a big plastic bottle." -- cl-kellie0901

Join in the conversation for more great tips -- and while you're there, share a few of your own!

Note to marketing departments: Do not make moms angry. You won't like them when they're angry. Once again proving true the old adage: "If Mama's not happy, nobody's happy," a new Motrin ad that pokes a little fun at frazzled moms and the practice of babywearing created a firestorm of controversy this weekend. Mothers across the Internet, especially those who are advocates of attachment parenting, reacted and spread the word about the ad, which many felt was insulting and sent the wrong message, resulting in Johnson & Johnson (the parent company of the unit that produces Motrin) removing the ad from its website and responding to those who complained. Of course, the mommy bloggers and Twitterers were not the only ones sounding off about this ad campaign. iVillage moms all across our playgroups and message boards had a lot to say about this take on motherhood:

"I get that they're trying to be funny, but it's not. It's insulting and demeaning. And that is what irritates me. Even if I had never practiced attachment parenting (to the degree that I do), it would insult me as a mother. I mean, do they think women in babywearing cultures have stacks of Motrin lying around? " -- peechikeen

"I am a babywearer (sometimes), I understand it, I advocate it, and am all for it.

What is the big deal? Personally I thought it was funny. Babywearing can hurt your back, neck, shoulders or wherever.

Sure, a couple of the comments made in the commercial were a tad over the edge, but it is just a commercial, meant for entertainment, meant to sell Motrin to busy moms as a way to help with the everyday pains that are associated." -- toekin

"I don't see the big deal. I know when I carried my kids in a sling, I would tend to get aches in my shoulder. It's not like the commercial is staying to STOP wearing your baby, it's telling you that they are there to help the aches and pains that some moms may get while wearing the baby." -- mom_alycemae

"I think it's the implication that all moms who wear their babies go through pain to do it or are trying to be a part of some 'official moms club'. Implying something negative about babywearing that may or may not be true is not really cool. It definitely makes it seem as though it is always going to be painful to wear your baby." -- white.wave7

"It just seems to me that people have lost their sense of humor and take every little thing so personally these days. I mean... it's a COMMERCIAL for Pete's sake!" -- my_sweet_perm

"It had a really negative tone about babywearing. To be honest, I am standing here typing with Lucas in a Hotsling and it is bothering my shoulder - but Motrin is the last thing I would take. I think the majority of babywearing mamas will be offended and hopefully won't buy their product." -- jenmom2006

"Love the side blurb about walking all day in high heels. How insulting. Not to mention totally misleading as any good carrier actually helps to make babycarrying MORE comfortable. I'm also glad MOTRIN thinks moms look tired and crazy all the time..." -- twobabies24

"That actually made me physically ill to watch. The reason why we wear our babies is because it's in fashion! Seriously???? We do it for the 'Mom Badge'? Are you kidding me??? We do it because we feel it is the absolute best choice for our babies and we LOVE our babies." -- olicam1205

"Ugh, just another company portraying the wrong message to mothers. It's no wonder so many new mothers feel such pressure to conform to today's 'ideals' of parenting. To actually undermine a mother's choice to carry her baby by saying it is 'in fashion' in such a derogatory way is just beyond a joke." -- jonesmum

What do you think? Was this ad all in good fun, or did it demean moms who are making personal choices about their parenting styles each day? Did it deserve all of the hullabaloo, or do we need to lighten up? Let me know what you think about this debate (if you missed it, you can still find the ad below) and what you'd like to tell companies about marketing to moms.

Just in time for the holidays, buses in Washinton, DC will be emblazoned with a statement unlikely to appear on greeting cards this year: "Why believe in a god? Just be good for goodness' sake" The message is sponsored by the American Humanist Association and is central to their awareness campaign that will run through December. Of course you know iVillagers are weighing in on this: 

"I'm not at all religious but even I viewed this as an almost 'attack' against people who have strong faith. It's not like Christians are doing ad campaigns saying 'Don't believe in God? Fine! Go to Hell!" Although now we might see some :)'" -- lilygirl06

"I think its a rather odd campaign, but I don't see the big deal. Christians reach out to people at this time of the year all the time, why can't atheists reach out to people too? All they are doing is trying to connect like minded people.  And if you are strong in your faith then it really shouldn't matter to you what other people believe or what some ads on a bus say." -- ilythia2b

The reaction continues on the Conservative Parenting board, where I had to appreciate the Seinfeld reference by one member: 

"What the heck is the American Humanist Association anyway? It reminds me of the fake charity to which George Costanza made contributions on behalf of his Christmas card recipients." -- layla75

What do you think? Are the holidays too isolating for those that don't celebrate? Do you think the American Humanist Association has the right idea or is this campaign sending the wrong message? Chime in here with your reaction!  

It's Green Week here at iVillage. As a part of NBC Universal's green initiative, we're featuring some great content on going green, buying organic and eco-friendly living on a budget. On our Green Kitchen message board, iVillager jamie-rk raises an important point about buying local: 

"I have been trying to eat more locally for many reasons: environmental, freshness, food safety and cost. But I haven't really decided what 'local' means: 50 miles? 100? Within the state? Last week I saw a sign in my local Whole Foods (Oakland, CA) which read: Local Apples! Grown in Washington State! That seemed like a bit of a stretch to me. 

So, when you buy local, what do you consider local?"

 

Are you buying items with a local preference in mind? How local is local in your opinion? Share your thoughts on the importance of a product's origin and being a "locavore" here with us. 

There has been a lot of talk about the mortgage mess and what it means for those looking to buy or sell a home -- not to mention those who got in over their heads... but what about renters? The sad truth is that those that rent their homes are also being affected when the property goes into foreclosure. Carmen Wong Ulrich of CNBC's "On the Money" has some important things you should know if you find yourself in this situation.

"Is there any recourse for renters in the foreclosure crisis?"

It's hard to think about saving for your child's college education with the uncertain economy, but many iVillagers -- especially those in our Expecting Clubs and Playgroups -- are looking to get a head start on those education expenses. Carmen shares her best advice for the question: "How do I start saving for my child's college education?"

If you have a question you'd like Carmen to tackle, post it here in the comments or email us directly at ivcommunity@mail.ivillage.com

Watch Carmen Wong Ulrich's 'On The Money' Weeknights 9PM EST on CNBC! Find more information on coping with the economy with our Bail Yourself Out resources.

Whether you call it Veterans Day, Remembrance Day or Armistice Day, November 11 is a day to reflect on the service of all veterans and honor their sacrifices. This day is especially important in our Military Families  and Military Wives communities, where they rely on the support and friendship from other military family members and veterans::

"So glad I could be a part of this lovely group of military wives. Thank your DH/SO/DF for their service. And thank all of you for being such wonderful supporters. The job is not easy but so worth it. I'm so proud to say I'm not only a Veteran but a supporter of all." -- oklamom2b

On our Politics Today message board, they've put aside their differences to remember the service of veterans both on the board and in their offline lives:

"To this day, I consider myself fortunate that all of my brothers, bil's and husband came home from Vietnam and my dad came home from WWII. I am particularly fortunate that my DS came home from Iraq earlier this year. All came home in sound mind and body. All came home, because they were fortunate enough to serve with others who made the ultimate sacrifice. Thanks to all of our fellow posters who have served." -- sopall1953

"In Canada, we remember our veterans/military on November 11th as well. We call it Remembrance Day. So to all the veterans out there in North America and all the men and women currently serving... we honour you. Thank you and God Bless." -- suemox

The votes have been counted, the balloons have dropped and the champagne has been broken out. The election is over and already iVillagers are anxiously talking about those campaign promises.   What's important and what should come first?  It's almost like kids on Christmas morning!

On Liberal Parenting, they're talking about establishing a healthcare plan sooner rather than later: 

I'd like to see health care get put in place, so I don't have to worry about my friends who have none. ~kittyrose333

...Health care health care, health care.  I'm skeptical anything will get done on this, so I'd like to see it as soon as possible.  ~elcl2006

I'd like to see him put some sort of health care thing in place, I'm tired of my husband's company screwing us over on their policy. ~sweetlilybugs 

For magic_az on the Hot Topics forum, it's all about reform:

I personally think that they should start with the insurance companies by NOT letting them get away with what they have for so long. They charge huge premiums and make a habit of denying coverage or putting a cap on what they will pay for any medicine or procedure. People are dying or going without care all the while the evil insurance companies make billion and billions in profit.

And, speaking of reform, cl-pooh1972 on Interracial & Interfaith Relationships has her concerns about what will happen in education.  She's a teacher and I always listen to teachers:

• More testing of the children and grouping them where necessary.
• Stop trying to mainstream the special-ed kids into a regular classroom.
• Get rid of poor teachers who basically just sit and read the newspaper because they have tenure and can't be fired.  (Yes, they DO exist!)
• Work to make the parents more involved in their child's education. Many parents do work 2 and 3 jobs, but they can check homework and make a small effort at least.

What about individual rights?  Loriannedz on the Lipstick Lounge is thrilled with the Obama win and hopes it will bring about some real change:

Who runs this country plays a pivotal role in the rights individuals have, and I was very concerned about the Supreme Court, Roe v Wade, gay rights, etc. 

We seem to always be talking about the economy, but on the November 2003 Playgroup, cmtenna1 is advocating some personal responsibility:

I'd love to see the Obama administration put a plan together to get the economy back on track with the help of the American people. I think that for so many of us (and when I say this, I specifically think ME), we have lived high on the hog and have expected to have a certain lifestyle that isn't in step with our actual income. In tandem with realigning ourselves, I'd love the jobs to become abundant so that people can earn money for themselves to secure their present and their future.

So, while we are all anxious to see what happens next, I think the wise words from nightsrainfall on the Lipstick Lounge sums it up perfectly:

I'm worried people are going to get annoyed at the lack of instant change. We like things done fast, but I worry if we do them fast, we won't think them through. Plus, doing anything instantly usually is hard, especially when you try to do it with an entire country. Change, any change from anyone, takes time, in my opinion...

For me, all of these things are important, but I have to admit I'm also really anxious to see who becomes the First Puppy!

What about you?  Let it fly! As always, you know we want to hear what you think.
 

"This is our time to put our people back to work and open doors of opportunity for our kids; to restore prosperity and promote the cause of peace; to reclaim the American dream and reaffirm that fundamental truth, that, out of many, we are one; that while we breathe, we hope," he said. "And where we are met with cynicism and doubts and those who tell us that we can't, we will respond with that timeless creed that sums up the spirit of a people: Yes, we can." ~Barack Obama, Election Night 2008

Last night's victory speech by President-elect Obama has filled many iVillagers with hope for real change and they are especially excited at the prospect of seeing history being made.

On the August 2008 Playgroup, amelise shared a very special conversation between the two people she loves most:

I started crying though when my husband held his daughter and said these words to her:

"What an exciting and scary time you were born into sweetheart. Things are hard right now but there is so much hope and there are so many little ones like you who are going to grow up to do great things. You will get to say that you were born when the first black president was elected. That means that soon, a little girl like you will be able to be president. I think that it will happen really soon because it's over due."

It was so sweet to see this win fill my husband with hope for our daughter and her future. Now I am filled with hope and joy that our country will be better than it is and that our children will help with that.

On Politics Today, caspert983, echoes others' call to action:

I am so proud to see where this goes. Please just give it a chance and if you don't like it, then work harder in 4 years. But for now, this is a new direction for our country and we should be proud of where we have come from and where we are going. If not, then it's ok I respect your opinions, but as John Mccain said, tomorrow is a new day and we must work together. So let's do this next 4 years the right way and fix the hurt, the broken areas of our country.

And, even though her candidate didn't win, frozenmargarita4me, also on Politics Today offered her own congratulations:

While he is not my choice of a president, he will be my president. I will respect him and I wish him well. I truly hope that he can reunite this country and that the hatred between our citizens over the last 7 years will diminish. I'm willing to give him the benefit of the doubt. Our country is depending on him.

So I say congratulations again and pray that Barack will make the right choices and decisions for the sake of our country and all of our citizens.

Many loved John McCain's gracious concession speech and thought he was a 'real class act':

He has shown such dignity this evening. I loved his speech and have so much respect for him now. Three cheers for McCain. Thanks for running and the time you spent in service of our nation. ~kateandzachsmom2008, Moms & Politics 

janie.ohio, on the Liberal Parenting board, hopes for a little bi-partisan cooperation:

I think it was very well said, and I saw how he was trying to reunite his supporters back to the rest of the country. Not that they were receptive to it, but still... He tried. Hopefully they'll get over their disappointment and the country can come together... We've had 8 years of divisiveness, so it'd be nice to be one country again.

We'll let GardenWeb's Hot Topics board member, sombreuil_mongreul, have the last word as she is doing her own post-election happy dance:

Huzzah! Our long nightmare is over. The cavalry arrived in the nick of time and Fort USA has been liberated. Welcome President-elect Obama.  The times they are are a-changing.

So, iVillagers...are you doing your own happy dance?  Are you feeling the same excitement?  Share what you've told your own children and what you feel should be the next steps for uniting the nation behind our new President-elect. 
 

What more is there to say in this historic moment? No matter who you voted for, this was a long and hard-fought campaign and everyone in our community put every ounce of their passion into the discourse on the message boards. As the networks call the election for Senator Barack Obama and Senator John McCain concedes the race, here is a quick glance at the early reaction:

Celebration is the theme of the evening on the Liberal Parenting message board:

"I am in a VERY PLEASANT SHOCK!!!!" -- mama647

"I'm so thrilled and proud for our nation tonight." -- mommy2max111805

"I can't even believe what I'm seeing! I'm IN TEARS!!" -- lilmamaof32008

Initial reaction from the Moms & Politics community:

"I cannot even find words to express how elated I am right now.  This is a historical moment for all Americans.  May we find ourselves brought together to support our new president and pray for him to guide out country into a better tomorrow." -- mom.2.steven.n.bryce

How are you feeling as we see this moment unfold? What do you think should happen in the Obama administration? Share your initial reaction with us and your feelings on this emotional election night.

Maybe they had no way of knowing, but I think the Bee Gees had tonight in mind when they sang "Night Fever" (night-fevah-ha!). As always, iVillagers have kept the conversations hopping this evening and are tearing up the boards and chat rooms with their commentary and reactions to early poll results. The mood seems to be ultra-excitement, with a hearty dose of nerves, pride and even festiveness on all sides. And of course hard-core honesty turned up to 11. Let's take one last look at some comments from around the community before we get into the real nitty-gritty of calling this election.

On the Conservative Parenting board, the moms are geared up to chat while watching the returns, but for some, the suspense is too much to take. iVillager joyfullmama2005 has a unique way to cope:

"The stress just became too intense for me so I just turned on some Christmas music. Silver Bells is playing softly in the background. I am off for a little bit, for now I need to clean the kitchen and vacuum the house."

 

They're hooked on the early returns over on the Liberal Parenting board and not ashamed to admit it!

"I'm here in Hawaii and it's going to drive me crazy keeping an eye on all of this. I can't wait to hear about Virginia (my old voting state) which looks like may go BLUE! Keeping fingers crossed!" -- chelleh24

"I just watched CNN for a little tiny minute, and they were projecting Kentucky for McCain... I'm getting scared! But we knew all along KY was going to stay red, right? Someone talk me down! Oh lord it's going to be a long night!" -- mommeebear 

"You know, partisanism aside, I have to note something. I am really starting to think that America has gone soft. All these polls about 'negative attack ads'. First of all, get a pair of cahones people. When you are in a campaign you're *supposed* to attack your opponent. Now granted, you don't go after their family members or their appearance but discrediting the person's record or lack of experience is ENTIRELY fair game. I also think these negative attack ads polls are so worthless not to mention subjective."

And finally, from the Moms & Politics board, I wanted to share what may be my most favorite quote from this entire election season:

I'm all emotional today, I cannot ever remember being this way in any election. I chose to vote McCain because he is more closely aligned with my views, but I must say I have grown to admire and respect Senator Obama. I will be proud to stand behind either one wholeheartedly. All day I've kept thinking this is really gonna happen today, we are truly making history. I cannot help but be proud when I think of all the pain and torture Senator McCain went through for his country, and now he could get the chance to lead it. Or to see Senator Obama so deeply passionate for his beliefs and to think that someone from such humble beginnings, through hard work and determination, defying all odds unite so many people and become our next president. My hope is whoever claims victory tonight, will have the wisdom and guidance to lead us to better days, and will have the support of all Americans.  -- bsktbllmom05

I think I need to get bsktbllmom05 to write this blog from now on. 

How are you feeling? Are you on the edge of your seat or are you serene knowing the lot has been cast? I'll be keeping an eye on the community reaction tonight and tomorrow and am looking forward to hearing your thoughts on this historic night.  

It's time for another check-in with our iVillage community to see what they're reporting about their voting experiences and what the buzz is out there at the polling places: 

Closely Spaced Siblings

"Honestly... [I feel] scared. Not just for the presidential nominees, but also the Senate vacancies (both state and federal here). And we're also voting for quite a few judicial positions here, including for our Supreme Court and Appeals Court- and local district courts. HUGE votes all the way around for me." -- cl-ikat04

50 & Fabulous

"The day is finally here. That means the end of all of the political ads! I am so tired of listening to the bashing and accusations and things out of context.  We have early voting here in NC so I voted a couple of weeks ago. They're showing the polling places on TV and there are lines around the buildings." -- cl-lindsey53

"If I never see another political ad or get a call, it's fine with me. Actually, we don't know when we'll get to vote. DH went to polls at 6 AM while I was still sleeping. The lines were long, so he came back. We have a lot of senior housing in our precinct and they get up a crack of dawn to vote, then go out to breakfast." -- jaybee458

"Since we voted early, I've been sitting in front of the TV, remote in hand, and hitting the "Mute" button every time an election ad comes on. By last night, I was about ready to replace the remote with a shotgun." -- highsierra

Politics Today

"I timed my trip to the polls today to not coincide with before or after school drop-offs, and I was in and out in ten minutes total. Raining here, but there was room to stand inside this year, plenty of polling booths and nice staff who did a great job of keeping the lines moving quickly. Nicest experience I've had voting in years." -- lottalattes

"I arrived at my polling station at 7:30 AM. The streets near the school were crowded with folks parking, so I figured I shouldn't bother with trying to find a space there. When I arrived at the school, the line stretched around the front of the building. I heard it was much worse at 6 AM when the polls opened. Some had been in line since 5:30 or so." -- sandybryant

"From the time I entered the door until I left was less than 10 minutes. One of the poll workers who gives out those "I voted" stickers said that by 9 a.m. this morning, more voters had voted at our precinct than the entire election day in 2004." -- sopall1953

Moms & Politics

"In and out in 10 minutes for me. Missing the early morning pre-work crowd was key. I've never felt THIS excited about voting before!" -- bmama79

"The polling place was busy and steady but there was no wait and it was very efficient and controlled. I've been voting since 1980 and I have never waited in a long line to do so." -- amd1427

Stepmoms/Biomoms Debate

"Big day for me - my first time voting as an American citizen! I waited less than half an hour. DH went at 8am and called me to tell me that the line was insane. I went at 11 got in and out of there relatively quickly. Then I went to Starbucks and got a free coffee for flashing my I Voted sticker" -- mykidcanfly

How are things in your neighborhood? Have you voted yet? Let us know how your voting experience has been!  I'll be back with another roundup later this evening as we watch the returns roll in.

I know those on the West Coast are still finishing up their morning coffee, but it's mid-day here and I just returned from my polling place here in northern Virginia a short while ago. As many other iVillagers have noted, things seemed to be going very smoothly and the lines weren't bad at all. Checking the mood on the boards, the excitement is still going strong and not too many reports of problems yet. I ventured out beyond our usual political boards and decided to see what was being said in some of our other great communities. Here's a quick glance:

Quick & Easy Recipes

"I took DD with me to vote this morning. I wanted her to be a part of this historic election in some small way! I'm glad to be done and the lines at our voting place were definitely longer than usual, but they weren't bad - maybe 15 minutes.

I'm going to be on edge all day waiting for the results. This election just feels more important than any of the others that I've voted in. Not to mention that we'll be making history regardless of which candidate wins." -- cgirl2003

"We were in line in our small town at 7:00am and we stood for an hour! It certainly has been a fun election year... I can't wait to see who is our next president!" -- heyitskay

"I was able to cast my vote this morning and I am so happy that I was able to vote in a pretty quick fashion." -- winniethepoohfan

"Election day is today!! Yeah! Although, my job hasn't slowed down much! I voted this morning and didn't have to wait in line at all!" -- nattlesmom

March 2005 Marchmallows Playgroup

"Here in MI there are some polls posting a 2 hour wait. Luckily here in my part of town there are so many precincts that I was able to walk in and the whole thing took me 12 minutes!" -- carterandrewsmom

"Well, after meeting up with a friend and her 2 kids so we would have company for our long wait, strategically packing snacks, drinks & toys to entertain the 3 kids we were bringing to the polls, we were in and out in 5 minutes!!" -- ilkandc

All Boys

"I went at 0800 and was back home and on the computer by 0818.  In and out with no lines.  We live in a rural suburb in the Kansas City Metro.  In the city there are voting problems here this morning though. Registration lists went to the wrong poll sites." -- tlchaplain

"I voted! It was at 8 this morning and there was a pretty steady line. I was in and out in about 40minutes. I even took Ryan with me (his choice despite my warnings it was gonna be a long boring time), which was cool because he was in the infant carrier at the last presidential election! This time I got to kind of explain what was going on. I'm not sure he understood any of it." -- elflingsmama

Your Well-Being 60+

"...it only took 20 minutes to walk to the polls, sign in, vote & walk back home! There was a steady stream of people, but it was going quickly & smoothly. Everyone seemed to know who & what they wanted to vote for. I can't wait for the results." -- cal02

Everyone seems to be on pins and needles and I have a feeling that a lot of us will be staying up into the night to find out just how this election will go. Sound off here with your voting experience and I'll be back later this afternoon with another temperature check. 

It's here! iVillagers are heading out to the polls on Election Day and many are checking in to share their excitement and experience at the polls. A quick survey of the boards this morning turned up some early insight on what is *really* going on out there:

Politics Today

"I have to vote before work so I'm now planning on indulging in a Starbucks and heading to my polling place VERY early." -- uuroseygirl

"One of my online friends from NY went to vote this am (just after 6) and their computers were down." -- sandy9193

Moms & Politics

"[My husband] went very early (about 6:30am) and said he had to wait about 10 mins (which is actually kinda long for our voting place LOL) I am heading over around 10am, but have been dealing with an 11 month old who has been crying for more than 2 hours straight this morning with teething. I was going to take them all (4 kids) because my 15 year old wants to be there when I cast my vote... hopefully his little brother cooperates and chills out, lol. I do NOT want to stand in line with a screaming baby and be frustrated when I cast my vote!" -- pokemom74

"I voted early, prepared in case I was giving birth, but we are in NC and you can imagine it is CRAZY today. My [husband] was taking our two year old, but at 7AM the line was a two hour wait. He will go at 3PM and wait until he can vote this afternoon." -- nivri_bug

"Time to vote! Doesn't matter for whom... just vote. I woke up to the sound of...*gasp* traffic on my road. I live in the middle of nowhere... so this is quite odd, except on election day. Our polling place is down the road from me. Makes me feel good that so many are out and voting today where I live." -- cl-miyaka2007 

Liberal Parenting

"I am only 22, this is the only the second election I have voted in. And, well, the first election didn't go exactly as I had hoped. I am praying that things go the right way today." -- mama647

"I am so excited. I can't help but love our election process. I don't always love the negative campaigning, but I think it's amazing to see democracy in action. I cannot wait! We're going to an election watch party and I really think we're going to get the results we want!" -- kittiejb 

"Yes this is thrilling and I've been voting since the 80's... but this is by far the most exciting and I thought the first Clinton win was exciting. I worked on the Clinton campaign out in CA and hosted a dinner for the Dukakis's in VT in the 80's and so I've been plugged in for years but I'm telling you, I don't think I've been this excited about an election since that time." -- kubala

"I'm very excited too. I'm taking all the kids and they will each get to pull the lever on someone, but Spencer will be the one voting for Obama. Since he is the oldest, I want him to feel that he is taking part in making history." -- luvmy5monkeys

"This is my 2nd election too... but the first election that I am so passionate about!! I am really excited, but so nervous at the same time." -- cl-bonita7782

Conservative Parenting

"I voted too this morning, at 7:15; took 15 minutes, tops. There was a line initially, maybe 20 people... All these people were standing in line for no reason! I got to my table and had to wait for one of two touch screen machines. Not a bad time at all." -- staceroo

"I voted too, it only took about 5 minutes at 8:00. I live in a small town though. When I went in and checked in I felt this overwhelming sense of civic pride. I am so glad that I live in a country where I get a say in who makes the laws." -- newmom408

"I just got back. Felt good to vote for McCain/Palin." -- mom2annie2007

You know the old saying... vote early, vote often. Ok, so you probably shouldn't try to do the latter, but many iVillagers have already taken advantage of early voting in their areas. Others have sent in their absentee ballots and are looking forward to election night for the returns. There has been a little controversy about early voting this year and how it might affect the outcome of both national and local races, but overall the reaction from the iVillage community has been positive. Here are some initial experiences from the Politics Today board, from those who have already voted and those who are looking forward to casting their ballots in person:

"I remember the 2004 election and the lines were really long, although I was happy to wait. This year I voted absentee ballot. However, the lines will be really long this time and I wonder if a lot of people will just say 'forget it' and if that will affect the outcome." -- portabella2

"Actually I am hoping for long lines -- it will seem more festive. My eldest daughter and I will go vote together so it will be some mother/daughter bonding time. It is her first presidential election - she has campaigned for every election since she was one - sitting in her stroller waving a tiny campaign sign." -- janetheteacher

"I'm not trying to paint some idyllic picture here, but if my experience was at all representative, it might be another advantage of early voting: when it comes to the partisan peanut galleries outside polling places, maybe the parties save the 'big guns' for Election Day." -- titania_tantze

"I will miss going to my voting location in person though for I love that day, very exciting and a good feeling to be an American with voting rights and privileges." -- ioutspoken

And some are not messing around, going with a no-holds-barred approach: 

"We anticipate long lines, and so we are going to treat it like a sporting event. Packing snacks, lawn chairs, and all, lol. We might even wear 'astronaut diapers' in case the bathrooms are off limits... that's how serious voting in this election is!" -- niteowl08

Are we there yet?

Maybe it's just me, but I get the feeling that this is how a lot of folks are feeling at the moment. We've made it through a long campaign season, scandals, controversies, four debates, numerous Saturday Night Live appearances and more backbiting than you probably care to remember. Add in non-stop news coverage, negative ads and robocalls and it's really no wonder that people are a tad on edge about this election. No matter which way you look at it, it has been a pretty rough and contentious election and it's hard to recall a time when things were more divisive. That's why I was really interested in the comments on our Moms & Politics board from iVillagers who offered up how they would react come November 5:

"If Obama wins, I will support him as our president 100%. I am not the kind of person who will say 'poor me' McCain didn't win, so our country is going downhill. I am going to stand behind whoever is elected and hope they do a really great job." -- nivri_bug

"My fear is that this election will not play out like it has been projected in the polls. I'm afraid of what might happen should McCain actually win. I don't think we are ready for that kind of shock... I will be glad once this is over. I can't remember ever seeing people so emotional in an election." -- bsktbllmom05

"If my team (team Obama) wins, I'll be pleasantly surprised. After the last two elections, I'm jaded. I no longer trust polls. If my team were to lose, life will go on. Since I believe every administration is different (even if it's the same party), I believe any change can only be a positive thing right now." -- mommy2max111805

"If Obama wins I hope 4 years goes by quickly. You know, like pulling a band-aid off, rip it off really fast and it won't hurt as much. If McCain wins, I won't celebrate; I'll just hope he sticks to his plans, as he wasn't my first choice for Republican nominee. I do hope there will be no riots if he wins though." -- karjm

"I will be doing the 'Oh yeah, Oh yeah' song and dance if Obama wins. If McCain wins I will hope that he turns back into the old John McCain because he used to have some pretty good ideas." -- dopeone

"I cannot see how we won't remain divided as a country no matter who wins, why? Because we both feel our Candidate is right, and the other is wrong." -- fleur_de_lis2008