Trading Post

Hmmm... well aside from what's already mentiond.... PINK!!!!  (lol) But I'm sort of 'fluid' about things, so a variety of toys. And even some pants, so long as they had a 'girly' or 'princess' sort of print/ theme.  After all, little girls get to wear pants sometimes when they play. And of course a little vanity, so 'mommy' can brush my hair and help me with my pretend 'makeup'. 

Of course we all have many dreams and can't quite remember them in the morning. But of two categories that I can always vividly remember, one is about driving somewhre, and the other is about wearing a diaper in some situation. Sometimes the dream is all 'casual', as in everyone around me sees that I'm diapered and just shrug, while I'm rather mortified that I forgot my pants!! lol Other times, I'm somehow trying to hide/ disguise it but am found out. The consequences are never much more than a 'thump on the rump' and being told  "you've wet! Go change." Point is, I'm the only adult in the scene that is diapered....  hmmm... now I wonder why my mind is so interested in that.... hmmm... Might need to ask a 'shrink'.  hehehe

Chili Colorado with salad & green beans   

Chapter 110 Betsy and I were getting excited about spring break. The past five months had been a whirlwind—school had kept both of us busy, and while we managed to pass all our classes, it hadn’t been easy. Betsy especially had some grueling weeks, and it got to the point where I insisted she take every other Sunday off from schoolwork. It helped. A little breathing room made a big difference. Now, we had something to look forward to: a 49-mile hike. We’d planned it so we could trek from one cabin to the next, each spaced out just right. All but one cabin had a washer and dryer, which meant we only needed to carry three of Betsy’s diapers for the entire trip. That was a relief—less bulk, less weight. Another bonus? The food. Everything we wanted to cook and eat would be waiting for us at the cabins. So, we only needed to pack enough for two days, plus gear that could stretch to three in case something unexpected happened. It meant our packs would be light, manageable—just what we needed for a long, scenic hike. We were ready. Ready for fresh air, quiet trails, and the kind of reset that only nature can offer. Well, that was at least what the plan was. The two magazines that printed my house designs wanted me to fly out to New York for some meetings that were Mandatory for me to be there. If I didn’t go there would have been a good chance that they would stop printing my designs and it was the same week that we were going on our hike.  I told Besty that it wasn’t a big deal because I could always go to a different magazine. Besty said to me that didn’t I tell her that the ones I work with were the best and they paid top dollar for your work? I told her yes; they are and yes, they do. Besty said then we are not going on the hike. I stood there, still trying to find the words, but Betsy’s tone had shifted. It wasn’t angry. It was firm. Protective. Her eyes held mine, and I saw it clearly: she wasn’t just giving up a trip. She was choosing me. You’ve done a lot for me, she said. Now it’s my turn. I started to protest, to explain that I didn’t want her to miss out, that we could reschedule, that maybe I could skip the meetings. But before I could get the words out, she cut me off. What don’t you understand, she said, when I said we are not going on that hike? Her voice was steady, her face set. And at that moment, I knew—this wasn’t about the hike. It was about standing beside me when I needed it most. Her decision was final, and it came from love. I nodded, swallowing the lump in my throat. Okay, I said quietly. I look at her and ask her what are we going to do with you. She asks me what do I mean? Look, I know the day-to-day stuff you can handle on your own, but when it comes to your diapers you have a hard time with them, like they leak half the time. The last time we tried letting you put on your diaper we had to change the sheets 6 out of the 7 days you tried it. Betsy sat quietly for a moment, clearly thinking it through. Her pacifier bobbed slightly as she mulled it over, her dinosaur stuffie tucked under one arm like always. You’re right, she said finally. I do have trouble with my diapers sometimes. And yeah… six out of seven days was kind of a disaster. I gave her a gentle smile. It’s not a big deal. You handle so much on your own. But maybe it’s okay to ask for help with the things that are harder. She blushed and nodded. Yeah, you’re right. Do you have any ideas? she asked. I thought for a moment. What do you think about your mom coming to stay while I’m gone? You’re always telling me how much you love her cooking. She considered it, then nodded. That could work. Plus, there’s a lot around here we could do together. It might be fun. Great, I said. Let’s call her tonight—after your nighttime bottle. She smiled. Sounds like a good time for it. Later, after she’d finished her bottle and was curled up beside me, we called her mom. We explained everything—the trip, the meetings, the diaper situation. Her mom listened patiently, then said, “I’d love to come stay. But there’s a problem… She paused. Don’t you remember Betsy? Your dad and I are going on that 10-day course that week. Betsy’s face fell. Oh… yeah. You did tell me. I just forgot. Her mom’s voice was gentle. It’s okay, sweetheart. We’ll make it up to you when we get back. Betsy nodded, quiet but understanding. And just like that, our plans shifted again I sat quietly for a while, thinking through the options. The hike was off, her mom couldn’t come, and I had to be in New York. We needed a plan. One that would make Betsy feel safe and cared for while I was away. Finally, I turned to her. Betsy, I have another idea. But I need you to hear me out completely before you say yes or no. She looked at me curiously. Okay… what is it? I took a breath. What if we asked Lena to help out while I’m gone? Betsy opened her mouth to respond, but I raised a hand gently. Hold on—just let me finish. She wouldn’t be with you all the time. You’d still have your space. But she could help with the things you struggle with—changing your diapers, giving you your baths. You’ve said more than once how much you like having Lena around. And one more thing… she’d give you your morning and nighttime bottles. I know you both enjoy that. Betsy hesitated. But… she’s never changed my diaper before. That’s true, I said. But think about how many times she’s seen you get changed. She’s never flinched, never judged. And she babysits her twin three-year-old granddaughters once or twice a week. She knows what she’s doing. She sat quietly, processing everything. Her thumb drifted to her mouth, her dinosaur stuffie tucked under her arm. After a long pause, she spoke in a barely audible voice. Okay. I lean in. Did you say okay? She didn’t speak—just gave a small nod. I smiled, brushing a strand of hair from her face. Everything’s going to be okay. You’ll see. I stood up from the chair and stretched slightly. I’ll be right back, I said. Betsy looked up from where she was curled on the couch, her pacifier resting on her chest and her dinosaur stuffie tucked under her arm. Where are you going? she asked, her voice soft. I’m going to get Lena, I replied. Now? she asked, surprised. I smiled. Now’s as good a time as any. Without waiting for a response, I grabbed my keys and stepped out into the hallway. The air was cool and quiet, the soft hum of evening settling over the building. I made my way down to Lena’s apartment and knocked gently on her door. It took a moment, but eventually the door creaked open. Lena stood there, framed by the warm light of her living room. She was wearing a short robe, loosely tied at the waist, and I couldn’t help but notice—she looked effortlessly beautiful. Her hair was slightly tousled, and the scent of lavender drifted out from inside. She gave me a curious smile. Hey, she said. Everything okay? I nodded. Hi. Actually, both Betsy and I have a bit of a situation, and we were hoping you might be able to help us out. Lena leaned casually against the doorframe, her expression intrigued. A situation, huh? she said, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear. Sounds serious. Want to come in? I glanced back toward the hallway. Betsy’s waiting for us at my place. I think it’d be better if we talked there—she should be part of the conversation. Lena nodded, her smile warm. Alright. Let me grab my slippers. As she disappeared into her apartment for a moment, I felt a quiet sense of hope. Maybe this would work out after all. When we walked into our apartment Besty was sitting on the couch waiting for us. I sat down, took a breath, and started. So, I have to fly to New York next week. It’s for work—some mandatory meetings with the magazines that publish my house designs. If I don’t go, there’s a real chance they’ll stop printing my work. Lena nodded, listening intently. The problem is Betsy. She’s okay on her own for most things, but… well, you know she still needs help with her diapers, baths, and bottles. Her mom can’t come—she and her dad is going to be away that week. And we had to cancel our hiking trip because of all this. Lena’s expression softened. Poor thing. I continued, So I was wondering… would you be willing to help out? Just with the things she really needs help with—diaper changes, baths, and her morning and night-time bottles. The rest of the time, she’ll be fine on her own. And I know she loves having you around. Lena tilted her head, thoughtful. She’s never asked me for that kind of help before. No, but she trusts you. And you’ve seen her get changed plenty of times. Plus, you take care of your granddaughters all the time. You know what you’re doing. She smiled, a little touched. You’re right. I do. I looked at her, hopeful. So… would you consider it? Lena’s words hit like a soft blow. Well… there’s a problem with that whole week, she said, her voice tinged with regret. I already have a commitment. I felt my heart sink, and when I glanced at Betsy, I saw the same look mirrored on her face—disappointment, quiet and heavy. She clutched her dinosaur stuffie a little tighter, her thumb drifting toward her mouth. But then Lena leaned forward, her expression shifting. Hold on, she said, her tone was more hopeful. I might be able to work it out. Both Betsy and I looked up, surprised. That flicker of hope returned, and I could see it reflected in Betsy’s eyes. The first thing I need to know, Lena continued, is how much space is in Betsy’s nursery. And yes, she added with a playful smirk, I’m calling it a nursery, there’s a crib in there, after all. I chuckled. Fair enough. Let’s go take a look, Lena said. I want to see if my idea could actually work. The three of us got up and made our way down the hall to what had officially become Betsy’s nursery. The room was softly lit, cozy and familiar. The crib stood against one wall; its bars lowered slightly from earlier. A changing table sat nearby, neatly stocked with diapers, wipes, and powder. Stuffed animals lined up the shelves, and a soft rug covered the floor. Lena stepped inside and looked around, taking it all in. She paced slowly, mentally measuring the space. Hmm, she murmured. I think this could work. She turned to us with a nod. Alright, let’s head back to the living room. I’ll tell you what I’m thinking. We returned to the living room and settled in—Betsy curled up with her dinosaur stuffie, me perched on the edge of the armchair, and Lena sitting cross-legged on the couch, her robe now tied a little tighter. Once everyone was comfortable, Lena leaned forward again, her tone thoughtful but energized. Okay, she said. Here’s my idea… She looked at both of us and said, So, here’s the thing—my commitment that week is babysitting my granddaughters. That’s why I wanted to see the nursery. I needed to know if there was enough space to move their cribs from my apartment and set them up here. She paused, glancing at Betsy with a warm smile. And the good news is—there’s more than enough room. Betsy perked up slightly, her dinosaur stuffie still tucked under her arm. So, here’s my idea, Lena continued. We’ll move both of my granddaughters’ cribs into Betsy’s nursery. That way, all three of them—my granddaughters and Betsy—can sleep in the nursery together. I’ll sleep in your bed for the week. She looked at me, then at Betsy. I think it’s the best solution. It keeps everyone together, and I’ll be close enough to help with anything Betsy needs. Plus, she added with a soft chuckle, I’d really enjoy spending the week with her. And I think my granddaughters would love it too. They’ve seen her around and always ask about her. Betsy’s cheeks turned a light shade of pink, but she smiled. I think I’d like that, she said quietly. Lena reached over and gave her hand a gentle squeeze. Then it’s settled. Hold on, I said gently. Before we go any further, we need to have a real discussion about what this entails. I don’t want there to be any misunderstandings—our friendship means too much to me. She nodded, her expression softening. I appreciate that. Go ahead. I took a breath. This isn’t just about helping out for a few hours. It’s about stepping into a very personal space for Betsy. Diaper changes, baths, bottles—those aren’t just tasks. They’re part of her comfort, her identity. And while she trusts you, I need to make sure you and Besty are truly comfortable with all of it. Lena listened intently, her posture relaxed but focused. I also want to be clear, I continued, that this isn’t a favor we’re asking lightly. You’d be staying in our home, caring for Betsy and your granddaughters, and managing a delicate balance. If at any point it feels like too much, I want you to feel safe saying so. Lena gave a slow nod. I understand. And I’m glad you said that. I wouldn’t want to step into something without knowing the full picture. But I do care about Betsy. I’ve seen how much these routines mean to her. If she’s okay with it—and if you are—I’m willing to help. I glanced at Betsy, who had been quietly listening, her dinosaur stuffie hugged close. She gave a small nod, her eyes calm. Okay, I said. Then let’s keep talking. Let’s make sure we’re all on the same page.

Hi, what part of the country are you in for reference ?