Lori J

I have had kimchi at probably 10+ different places. So I bought a jar at my local Korean grocer. And despite its "pickled" status, it tastes off. Slighty effervescent. Is it bad? I'm reluctant to eat more.

We've been using Target brand diapers for longer than 6 months with no problems at all. Suddenly, my 16-month-old daughter had contact dermatitis where the diapers fasten. I've contacted Target about any new manufacture issues, but haven't heard anything. Anyone else experience a change?

I've read older Q&A, but just want reassurance that we're not alone. My daughter has 6 front teeth, the first molars on top have crowned, and now we're on to the bottom. Teething seems to be lasting forever, and it's excruciating. I feel like I'm giving her Tylenol like it's animal crackers. Everyone I speak to says, "oh, our son opened his mouth one day, and there they all were!" Any genuine advice is welcome.

She still gets a bottle at bed, but I feel I'm feeding her too many solids too close to bedtime. She goes to bed at 8 PM, although we're moving it to 7:45, but sometimes we don't start her on dinner until 6:30 PM. Thanks for your kind thoughts.

My wee girl doesn't have a single tooth yet, but we'd really like to give her finger foods. Where to start? Our ped was adamant we wait until one of us has taken a child safety class. The Gerber Puffs insist baby must be crawling on hands and knees with belly raised. She's *almost* there. What do you suggest? Thanks!

We live in upstate NY and it's getting chilly. I don't want to end stroller rides for my soon-to-be 7 month old. She loves being outside. We have a bunting. Silly question bit: It goes on over her regular clothes, right?! LOL. I mean, she kicks off most blankets, so the bunting seems necessary. Thanks!

My darling girl is digging her rice cereal. But since we upped her cereal meals to twice daily, her sleep is more disrupted. Or are the two not connected? She clearly needs a bottle at least once yet during the night. Is this normal? But she'll wake at least once more for a long cuddle. She now cries lustily whereas she used to simply fuss. Your advice on how your 6-month-old slept and ate is much appreciated. Also, she sits quite well on her own...but still topples. Is she Stage 1 or stage 2 foods?! It's all so confusing! And yet fun. Thanks!

We've been using Similac Advance and switched to Enfamil b/c of slight variation in vitamin make-up. The Enfamil appears more watery. Both were carefully made to direction. Is this the case?

We've been using Similac Advance and switched to Enfamil. The Enfamil appears more watery. Both were carefully made to direction. Is this the case?

Of course my darling girl has feasted during growth spurts, but recently 6 ounces at once is not enough. Can their little tummies handle it? Obviously she may spit up on occasion, but not always.

For all the stay-at-home moms, how do you keep your infant occupied at 3, 4, 5, or 6 months? My infant rarely naps or only catnaps. I can't get anything accomplished. Do you have toys you like? I don't like strapping her into the car every day. But w/o adult interaction, it's tough. My husband has been so, so generous with his time, and he's incredibly patient. But yet she's so alert and aware. (BTW, forget suggesting a sling. She absolutely loathed not being able to see around her.)

My lovely, alert daughter has spent the last week sucking on her hands. I know it means she's discovered them, but need I be worried? We grudgingly allowed a pacifier for naps and nighttime b/c she clearly needed it. Now she's found her thumb. In less rational moments, I worry she won't take in the world around her because she's so focused on sucking her hands.