I remember when I was registering for items for the baby shower. I spent a lot of time reading reviews, comparing prices, asking for advice, and simply trying to decide what I needed for a new baby and what I didn't. After this first month of motherhood, here's my list (so far) of my personal "must have" items in case any other mothers out there want to look into them. Obviously, all moms will be different and what works for me may not work for you ;)
This book was recommended to me by several church friends that have been parents much longer than me, and I can see why. I have referenced this book so often. It has been so helpful to me in getting a good schedule for breast feeding underway in a way that is flexible, but yet allows for orderly days and nights. Most importantly, it brings security and order to baby. You'll want to buy this book for the following reason: The average breastfed baby, using the techniques in this book, sleeps an average of seven to eight hours a night between weeks seven and nine!! Jackson is only at week four now, but he has already gone 4-5 hour stretches several nights now. I'll have to update you all on whether we have success at week 9.
Less expensive than it's Medela counterpart, but getting great reviews online, I decided to go with the Ameda. I didn't need the carry-all bag, so I simply purchased the pump itself. I've loved it!! Even though I'm not returning to work, having this pump was important when breastfeeding wasn't initially going well with Jackson (just the first week, now it's fine!) and I had been instructed to pump in order to help my milk come in. I've also used it to relive engorgement, pump for bottles if we're out and about during the day, and just keep milk supply up. I would also recommend getting the $20 accessories kit that comes with the freezer bags, a few more bottles, and some parts. If you're returning to work, it is likely worth spending a bit more for the carry-all version of this pump, though I know I received at least 2 small breastfeeding backpacks as freebies that most moms get from the hospital or their pediatricians office that I could use in a pinch.
I liked this so much, I ordered a second one! You can hang it on the door or even use it to line a pail for soiled laundry and cloth diapers (the top stretches and will fold down around the pail easily). Then when you need to wash everything, the zippered bottom allows you to release the contents without touching, or you can just turn it inside out to get it all in the laundry. And the pail itself goes in the laundry with the rest :)
So comfortable and washable. The soft fleece layer feels so nice and they are very absorbent, assuring no leaks. Just make sure you wear them under a more lined nursing bra or they probably will show under your clothes. But I haven't had many problems with that. They wash up wonderfully!
Okay, this one sounds really strange and scared me, but the reviews were so good that I decided to try it anyway. Turns out it's pretty great! Instead of the standard "bulb aspirators", this uses the parent's own suction to get the snot out...and don't worry, despite fears to the contrary, it doesn't end up in your mouth. Plus, the part that goes against baby's nose isn't inserted in the nostril, but just pressed against the opening. Seems much safer to me and has been much more effective than the bulb.
Great for smaller spaces because it folds up. Also has great pockets on the sides, mesh baskets underneath and "shelf" on the bottom, allowing you to store everything you'll need for diaper changes. Our current space wouldn't allow us to have a crib and changing table, so buying this and keeping it stored when not in use was the perfect solution. Actually, right now we just keep it set up in the main living room so that we can easily change diapers and still have access to the TV, kitchen, etc.
We love this playard. Right now, it is set up in the bedroom and it is where he currently sleeps (we'll be moving him to his crib likely next month, when nighttime feedings slow down). One of the best elements is the music box and the remote that controls it. I always put him in there, turn the music on, and then walk away and get in bed. If he get's fussy and the music stops, I have the remote and I just push a button to start the music again. It's also pretty easy to set up. We'll be traveling with it for the first time this weekend though, so I may have to update this post after that experience!
This was a splurge item for us, but we are glad we spent the money. This stroller is awesome...it rides so smooth on all surfaces. We love that the sun shade can move to keep the sun or wind off the baby at any angle. Then there are plenty of accessories you can add to make the stroller even better, like rain covers, etc. And it's adaptability is top notch - when you have a second child, it can be changed in multiple ways to fit two infants, two toddlers, or a toddler and an infant. Plus, I got the all apple green color, and it's really cute!! You can
watch the promo video here. (Also, to get free shipping, order it from strollers.com)
Well, the first month has come and gone so quickly. Being a mom has come pretty naturally. It's so strange how your instincts seem to kick in and somehow you just "know" things - and you didn't even have to take a class!
