Thursday, October 31, 2013
Wednesday, October 30, 2013
Week 18: Sweet Potato
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I was so proud of myself for actually posting this in week 18. Then I forgot to hit post yesterday. So pretend you saw it yesterday. haha
How far along: 18 weeks
Total weight gain: 7 pounds.
Maternity clothes: Except when I am in PJ's or scrubs.
Stretch marks: Not any new ones that I didn't have from Kai.
Sleep: Not particularly well.
Best moment of this week: Going to the pumpkin patch with Destructo and my hubby finally coming home. I hate when he is out of town traveling.
Miss anything: My back not hurting and Advil. I really really miss Advil. Yeah still the same. I caught myself staring longingly at the bottle last night. My midwife referred me for physical therapy for my back and hopefully this and the chiro I am seeing will help me to not be in so much pain all the time.
Movement: Some. Still very light and I can go all day without feeling him. Occasionally if I bend over and squish him he gives a good hard jab.
Food cravings: None this week.
Have you started to show yet: Yes and I am carrying this boy slightly different than I did Kai.
Gender: Bouncing baby boy.
Labor signs: No
Belly button in or out: In but getting more and more shallow.
Wedding rings on or off: On you know the two times a week I remember to put them on.
Happy or moody most of the time: A bit moody this week. My mind just keeps racing about all the things I need/want to get done before this baby comes and it stresses me out.
Looking forward to: My friend from Italy coming in for a visit.
Monday, October 28, 2013
More and More Destructoisms
Him and Mr. Destructo were fighting over who got to feel the baby moving. Mr. Destructo said "Son I made that baby. I can feel him whenever I want." Destructo replied "Daddy God made dat baby. I can feel him whenever I want." I laughed so hard I nearly peed my pants. You know which wouldn't take much while pregnant.
My grandma told him if he ripped his lovey in two we would have to throw it out. He replied "Gigi can't throw trash on the innerstate." Oh so true since we were driving down the interstate at the time.
While playing with a Little People set I had when I was a kid, he said "Baby Lee Lee save da people" Apparently there was a big fire and he and Liam were fire fighters.
He is a bunny rahrah all the time now and hops everywhere we go. Until he turns into a whale and does flips in the tub slinging water everywhere.
I very well might have scarred him for life by letting him watch Land Before Time. He sobbed like crazy when the momma died in it. I then cried along with him dang pregnancy hormones. I never realized he was perceptive enough to understand all that. Then he asked what happened to him if me and Mr. Destructo died. Nothing like telling your two year old that he would be raised by your sister and her husband.
He is still very much obsessed with fire fighters and fire trucks. In fact, he is going as a fire fighter for Halloween and his big boy room is going to be fire truck theme.
Anytime I say anything hurts, he kisses it better and asks me "Bettah momma?" Melts my heart.
He says " I always be your baby momma?" I think he is worried knowing a new baby is coming. Sweet boy.
He tried to elicit extra treats and snacks out of us by picking, eating his snack, but then telling us he didn't pick that one and he hates that one. I hate him saying hate. Good try Destructo but it isn't going to work.
He likes fighting with his daddy doo (as he calls him) and then throwing his Hulk hands across the room and yelling "I WIN!!!"
He was horrified that I was feeding his precious baby Lee Lee out of a bottle because milk comes from boobies. I had to explain that only Liam's mommy could breastfeed him.
He is obsessed with green dinosaurs and has a green dinosaur hat that he likes to run up and chomp people with. The day we got it, he threw himself face down on the sidewalk and pretended to eat grass. Apparently he was an herbivore that day.
After taking his temp the other day, I told him he had no fever. He said "Hoo hooo no fevah. No more germies." He doesn't like germs because they keep him away from his beloved science center. But what he doesn't understand is if he would quit putting the fake food in his mouth there, he would get far less germs.
He breaks into song when we are going places. It is always "We going to (insert where we are going here) times there all day long."
He pretends to be a baby all the time since my nephew was born and has the most annoying newborn like cry. I have four and a half more months before I need to hear that. :)
My grandma told him if he ripped his lovey in two we would have to throw it out. He replied "Gigi can't throw trash on the innerstate." Oh so true since we were driving down the interstate at the time.
While playing with a Little People set I had when I was a kid, he said "Baby Lee Lee save da people" Apparently there was a big fire and he and Liam were fire fighters.
He is a bunny rahrah all the time now and hops everywhere we go. Until he turns into a whale and does flips in the tub slinging water everywhere.
I very well might have scarred him for life by letting him watch Land Before Time. He sobbed like crazy when the momma died in it. I then cried along with him dang pregnancy hormones. I never realized he was perceptive enough to understand all that. Then he asked what happened to him if me and Mr. Destructo died. Nothing like telling your two year old that he would be raised by your sister and her husband.
He is still very much obsessed with fire fighters and fire trucks. In fact, he is going as a fire fighter for Halloween and his big boy room is going to be fire truck theme.
Anytime I say anything hurts, he kisses it better and asks me "Bettah momma?" Melts my heart.
He says " I always be your baby momma?" I think he is worried knowing a new baby is coming. Sweet boy.
He tried to elicit extra treats and snacks out of us by picking, eating his snack, but then telling us he didn't pick that one and he hates that one. I hate him saying hate. Good try Destructo but it isn't going to work.
He likes fighting with his daddy doo (as he calls him) and then throwing his Hulk hands across the room and yelling "I WIN!!!"
He was horrified that I was feeding his precious baby Lee Lee out of a bottle because milk comes from boobies. I had to explain that only Liam's mommy could breastfeed him.
He is obsessed with green dinosaurs and has a green dinosaur hat that he likes to run up and chomp people with. The day we got it, he threw himself face down on the sidewalk and pretended to eat grass. Apparently he was an herbivore that day.
After taking his temp the other day, I told him he had no fever. He said "Hoo hooo no fevah. No more germies." He doesn't like germs because they keep him away from his beloved science center. But what he doesn't understand is if he would quit putting the fake food in his mouth there, he would get far less germs.
He breaks into song when we are going places. It is always "We going to (insert where we are going here) times there all day long."
He pretends to be a baby all the time since my nephew was born and has the most annoying newborn like cry. I have four and a half more months before I need to hear that. :)
Wednesday, October 23, 2013
Week 17: Onion
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Yeah I am a liar liar pants on fire. I totally forgot to publish this during my 17th week and I am 18 weeks today. Whoops.
How far along: 17 weeks
Total weight gain: 7 pounds.
Maternity clothes: For sure. Except my jeans don't fit right and dig into my stomach, but I am so cheap I hate to buy new pairs. I only wear them on weekends since I wear scrubs to work and yoga pants around the house. Ugh.
Stretch marks: Not any new ones that I didn't have from Kai.
Sleep: Sure when I drug myself. I am still getting up at least twice a night to pee. Ahh the joys of pregnancy.
Best moment of this week: Going to the pumpkin patch with Destructo and my hubby finally coming home. I hate when he is out of town traveling.
Miss anything: My back not hurting and Advil. I really really miss Advil. Yeah still the same. I caught myself staring longingly at the bottle last night. My midwife referred me for physical therapy for my back and hopefully this and the chiro I am seeing will help me to not be in so much pain all the time.
Movement: Some. Still very light and I can go all day without feeling him. Occasionally if I bend over and squish him he gives a good hard jab.
Food cravings: None this week.
Have you started to show yet: Yes and I am carrying this boy slightly different than I did Kai.
Gender: Bouncing baby boy.
Labor signs: No
Belly button in or out: In but getting more and more shallow.
Wedding rings on or off: On you know the two times a week I remember to put them on.
Happy or moody most of the time: A bit moody this week. My mind just keeps racing about all the things I need/want to get done before this baby comes and it stresses me out.
Looking forward to: My friend from Italy coming in for a visit.
Tuesday, October 22, 2013
Naming a Child
Naming a child surely has to be the hardest thing you have to do in your pregnancy. I mean don't get me wrong labor and delivery sucked. But nothing was as agonizing as managing to come up with a first and middle name that sounds good with our last name, won't get the child made fun of by his friends, and won't make the child hate you further down the road.
Then once you make up your mind comes the fun of telling others what name you have decided on. Everyone has an opinion. Or ten. Some aren't so vocal in their opinions but if they don't like the name it is still obvious by their face when you say the name. This is especially true if the names you pick aren't super mainstream names. Then there are the super vocal ones who can make fun of your name, question your judgement, or just straight up put your name down. What people don't realize is that once you have made up your mind on a name, it isn't just a name they are insulting but your not yet born child as well.
Factor in having to come to an agreement with your hubby or whomever is responsible for the other half of your baby's DNA and I am amazed that kids ever do get named. Mr. Destructo and I do not agree on any names at all for girls. Kai's name was easy since we have both loved the name Malachi since our freshman year of college and his middle name was already predetermined since in hubster's family the first born son's middle name is the father's first name. Even though we had no doubts, let me tell you others did. Malachi isn't exactly a super common name in the states and that is the main reason I loved it. I never wanted a super common name, but didn't want one that the kid would hate either. We also are drawn to Biblical names and it fit that as well.
And there have been many moments of doubt since filling out that birth certificate. Every time I am asked how do you spell his name, how do your pronounce it, where did you come up with that name, I wonder if I doomed my kid for life. Or when the person at the bank refers to his account as Mah leechee or Mah la chi (instead of Kai). He is going to hate me. I guess he will have something to talk about in therapy one day.
But baby boy number two is even harder. I want another Biblical name. Again the hubby and I don't agree on names. I don't want the kid to hate me. I do prefer traditional Biblical spelling of the names, but in Malachi's case I kind of wished we had went with a phonetic spelling of it. Oh decisions, decisions. We have a name in mind and have been using it some but I just can't decide if it is the right name. With Malachi we knew and even when questioned (regularly still) I know we made the right choice. Oh the agony. I really think kids should just have a number until they are old enough to name themselves haha. Any suggestions on baby boy number two's name keeping in mind my above criteria?
Oh and on a sidenote just let me say that we are darned lucky that baby number dos is a boy. A girl would never have been named. We do not agree on girl names at all. It is a 180 degree difference in taste. It wouldn't have ended well.
Then once you make up your mind comes the fun of telling others what name you have decided on. Everyone has an opinion. Or ten. Some aren't so vocal in their opinions but if they don't like the name it is still obvious by their face when you say the name. This is especially true if the names you pick aren't super mainstream names. Then there are the super vocal ones who can make fun of your name, question your judgement, or just straight up put your name down. What people don't realize is that once you have made up your mind on a name, it isn't just a name they are insulting but your not yet born child as well.
Factor in having to come to an agreement with your hubby or whomever is responsible for the other half of your baby's DNA and I am amazed that kids ever do get named. Mr. Destructo and I do not agree on any names at all for girls. Kai's name was easy since we have both loved the name Malachi since our freshman year of college and his middle name was already predetermined since in hubster's family the first born son's middle name is the father's first name. Even though we had no doubts, let me tell you others did. Malachi isn't exactly a super common name in the states and that is the main reason I loved it. I never wanted a super common name, but didn't want one that the kid would hate either. We also are drawn to Biblical names and it fit that as well.
And there have been many moments of doubt since filling out that birth certificate. Every time I am asked how do you spell his name, how do your pronounce it, where did you come up with that name, I wonder if I doomed my kid for life. Or when the person at the bank refers to his account as Mah leechee or Mah la chi (instead of Kai). He is going to hate me. I guess he will have something to talk about in therapy one day.
But baby boy number two is even harder. I want another Biblical name. Again the hubby and I don't agree on names. I don't want the kid to hate me. I do prefer traditional Biblical spelling of the names, but in Malachi's case I kind of wished we had went with a phonetic spelling of it. Oh decisions, decisions. We have a name in mind and have been using it some but I just can't decide if it is the right name. With Malachi we knew and even when questioned (regularly still) I know we made the right choice. Oh the agony. I really think kids should just have a number until they are old enough to name themselves haha. Any suggestions on baby boy number two's name keeping in mind my above criteria?
Oh and on a sidenote just let me say that we are darned lucky that baby number dos is a boy. A girl would never have been named. We do not agree on girl names at all. It is a 180 degree difference in taste. It wouldn't have ended well.
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| Source | That would have been our daughter's name. |
Thursday, October 17, 2013
Week Sixteen: Avocado
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Yay! I am finally caught up. From here on, I can publish these in the week I am pregnant. (I am currently in my 17th week so expect that one in the next few days.) Baby is getting so big. Crazy how fast this pregnancy is going.
How far along: 16 weeks
Total weight gain: 6 pounds.
Maternity clothes: For sure.
Stretch marks: Not any new ones that I didn't have from Kai.
Sleep: Unless medicated I don't sleep. It is a problem. Benadryl has been my friend.
Best moment of this week: Finding out that baby is another boy! We decided to splurge for an elective ultrasound and it was so fun. This baby looks so much like Kai it is crazy.
Miss anything: My back not hurting and Advil. I really really miss Advil.
Movement: I do believe I am finally feeling some movement. I thought it was gas bubbles but it hasn't went away so it must be baby. Three weeks sooner than with Kai. I had anterior placentas both times so it takes a lot longer to feel movement.
Food cravings: I have been a bit queasy again this week so no real cravings. I do like Taco Bell of all things. I guess I was/still am craving almond chicken from Michigan and mashed potatoes and gravy.
Have you started to show yet: Yes
Gender: Bouncing baby boy.
Labor signs: No
Belly button in or out: In but getting more and more shallow.
Wedding rings on or off: On you know the two times a week I remember to put them on.
Happy or moody most of the time: Very happy this week.
Looking forward to: Thanksgiving. I want turkey. Yummy.
Tuesday, October 15, 2013
It's a......
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| New baby boy on left, Destructo on right |
It is so nice too because I have so many boy clothes that I won't have to buy anything other than a coming home outfit. The seasons should be about perfect too since new baby is due March 26th and Kai was born May 9th. I also have boy everything. Toys, books, cups, plates, you name it I have it. Yay for only having to buy a minimum of new stuff.
I can't wait to meet this little guy and see if he really does look like Kai! On the other hand, I am really trying to relish these last few months as a family of three. I will miss all the special times I get to spend just Destructo and I. But he is gaining a brother to create havoc with.
So any suggestions on an addition to my blog title? I mean Captain Destructo obviously needs an appropriately named side kick.
Monday, October 14, 2013
November Carnival of Natural Mothering
We had a great time reading all about your Natural Birth Choices in the October carnival! We hope you will write again for the November Carnival of Natural Mothering. Keep reading to find out how to sign up!November 2013 Carnival
Carnival Theme: Incorporating Natural Into the Holidays
As we approach the holiday season, it is easy to get swept up in preparations and anticipation. How do you bring your natural lifestyle into the holidays with you? Whether it's eco-friendly party prep, special treats that are also healthy, traditions that involve aspects of nature, or the natural techniques you use to stay calm and focused during the busy months ahead, we would love to read your stories and suggestions that focus on all that relates to a natural lifestyle during the hustle and bustle of the holidays.Signup Deadline: Wednesday, October 30, 2013
To participate, just add your blog to the linky below.
Carnival Date: Tuesday, November 5, 2013
A couple of days before the carnival, we'll send you an email with the html code to include in your post. Please schedule your post for November 5, 2013 before 9 am Pacific. Be sure to visit and comment on the other participants' posts on carnival day!
Sign up for October's Carnival!
Add your blog name, blog url, your name, and email address to the linky below. We'll email you with instructions for posting a couple of days before the Carnival goes live. (We reserve the right to remove posts that are off topic or don't follow the natural values of the carnival.)Sunday, October 13, 2013
Week 15: Navel Orange
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How far along: 15 weeks
Total weight gain: 6 pounds. Baby must have had a growth spurt or something. 3 pounds in a week seems a bit much, but I took it a couple times.
Maternity clothes: I still fit in some of my old clothes, but mainly maternity.
Stretch marks: Not any new ones that I didn't have from Kai. But one varicose vein on my leg is getting awful looking. :(
Sleep: I have to pee like three times a night and can't fall asleep until 11. It is a problem. So sleepy.
Best moment of this week: Titans game even if we did lose our quarterback to injury. I can't wait to take Destructo to his first Titans game one day.
Miss anything: Not really this week.
Movement: Nope. I swear I keep feeling something in my ribs, but unless I am already pregnant with a full term baby I don't think that is it.
Food cravings: Not so much this week.
Have you started to show yet: Yes I got a bump going on.
Gender: Will find out November 6th. Too far away ugh. Really fighting the urge to pay for an elective ultrasound.
Labor signs: No
Belly button in or out: In
Wedding rings on or off: On
Happy or moody most of the time: Moody at times but overall happy.
Looking forward to: Finding out what this baby is. I have 11 crates of clothes from Destructo. If this baby is a girl, look out swap boards. There will be some massive baby clothes selling going on.
Saturday, October 12, 2013
Week 14: Lemon
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How far along: 14 weeks
Total weight gain: 3 pounds.
Maternity clothes: Yep I am wearing them a lot. I can still fit into some of my older clothes, but maternity clothes are just so comfy. I love elastic waistbands for sure.
Stretch marks: Not any new ones that I didn't have from Kai.
Sleep: I have to pee like three times a night and can't fall asleep until 11. It is a problem. So sleepy.
Best moment of this week: We went to eat at Cheddars for my dad's birthday. I had a true pregnant moment when I considered licking the cheese dip container to get the last little bit. I refrained. But only barely.
Miss anything: Pina coladas
Movement: Nope.
Food cravings: Not so much this week.
Have you started to show yet: Yes
Gender: Will find out November 6th. Too far away ugh.
Labor signs: No
Belly button in or out: In
Wedding rings on or off: On
Happy or moody most of the time: Moody at times but overall happy.
Looking forward to: My anniversary, going to a Titans game, seeing Beauty and the Beast the play.
Wednesday, October 9, 2013
Week Thirteen: Peach
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Second tri truly is where it's at. You aren't huge and super uncomfortable yet. The morning sickness and exhaustion are better. Heck I forget I am pregnant some days since I am so busy chasing crazy Destructo around.
Tuesday, October 8, 2013
Rock a Bums cloth diaper Review
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These are a one size diaper so in theory it should fit your child from birth to potty training. They still fit Destructo pretty well at 31 pounds so I think the potty training aspect is correct. I will get back to you on the from birth side in about 5 or so months. Gulp time is going by too quickly. The elastic on this diaper is tight which is great for my wiggle worm since he gets leg gaps easily just from moving so much, but never left any red marks on his legs or stomach.
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| Yeah my pictures suck nowadays. Someone doesn't cooperate so well. |
Disclosure: I was given a Rock a Bums cloth diaper for free to review and keep. I was not paid to review them and all opinions are honest and my own. See my full disclosure policy tab for more information.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Monday, October 7, 2013
Week Twelve: Plum
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How far along: 12 weeks
Total weight gain: 3 pounds.
Maternity clothes: I have broke out the maternity and/or elastic waist band jeans for sure. Heck I have even been wearing a particular maternity shirt a bit even though I can still wear some of my looser fitting clothes.
Stretch marks: Not any new ones that I didn't have from Kai.
Sleep: This week was pretty good sleep wise. Only two bathroom trips per night haha.
Best moment of this week: My hubby coming back from out of town
Miss anything: Still turkey and ham sandwiches
Movement: Nope.
Food cravings: Not so much this week.
Have you started to show yet: A bit
Gender: Will find out November 6th. If I had to put a guess on paper, I would say girl. But it isn't a super strong feeling like with Destructo when I knew he was a boy.
Labor signs: NO
Belly button in or out: In
Wedding rings on or off: On
Happy or moody most of the time: Quite moody this week but that was more to do with the hubby being gone and being quite tired.
Looking forward to: Going to the race track on Saturday.
Saturday, October 5, 2013
Week 11: Lime
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How far along: 11 weeks
Total weight gain: 3 pounds. I am gaining far less weight this time than I did with Destructo. Must have something to do with the fact that I am chasing a crazy two year old since exercising isn't happening anymore super regularly due to morning sickness and exhaustion.
Maternity clothes: Still just the bella band.
Stretch marks: Not any new ones that I didn't have from Kai.
Sleep: This week was pretty good sleep wise. Only two bathroom trips per night haha.
Best moment of this week: Seeing baby on the ultrasound for the first time and getting to meet my new nephew Liam
Miss anything: Exercise, turkey and ham sandwiches, and I really want a pina colada this week.
Movement: Nope.
Food cravings: Not so much this week.
Have you started to show yet: Yeah we are entering into more bumpish stage and less flabish stage.
Gender: Will find out November 6th.
Labor signs: NO
Belly button in or out: In
Wedding rings on or off: On
Happy or moody most of the time: This has been a great week so I have been super happy.
Looking forward to: Finding out what this baby is. Christmas. Titans football.
Friday, October 4, 2013
It was my Anniversary.... and I Forgot
Five years has flown by (and at times been the longest five years of my life haha.) We are still together, still making it, still overall happy most of the time. This seems huge to me when I am watching more and more people my age get divorced. Mr. Destructo and I went into marriage with the mind set that there is no divorce so we better figure it out along the way. And that is just what we have done and will continue doing. Marriage is hard but the rewards are oh so great.
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| So young and in love |
As I dwelled on all this, I happened to notice an older couple at church. You could tell they had been married a long time and even when just sitting were touching. But what got me the most was when they went up to communion. The lady was unsteady and walked with a cane. She shuffled up to the front holding his arm. He got communion first while never letting go of her arm and then shifted so she could get communion. Then they shuffled back down the aisle.
You could tell that they had been married so long that they just leaned on each other when times got tough. I hope that Mr. Destructo and I can be like that 30,40,50 years down the road. We got married with the mind set that marriage is forever and there is no divorce. I hope if times ever get rough that we can cling to our faith and our vows and find a way to make it work. Each and every day I choose to be married to him just like I made that choice the day I married him. I hope to see 10,20,30 plus years with him.
1 Corinthians 13:4–8a
Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails. (NIV)
Thursday, October 3, 2013
The Bare Essentials Baby Registry
Okay so since I have had the privilege of helping two people close to me set up their baby registries (and by help I mean domineer haha) recently I have realized how much I really like being able to give advice and help with a registry. So I have decided to do a few blog posts about what my registry would look like if I could go back with the knowledge I have garnered after two years of having a child.
My crib isn't sold on Amazon, but is Baby Cache brand and I love it.
My favorite type was Lansinoh Lanolin.
**You can also use olive oil and it works well!
Nursing pillow (This could be contested but I had such trouble with latching Kai at first that it was necessary.)I really loved my Boppy Pillow
. I used it until Destructo was quite big and never had problems.
(1) or baby nail scissors. I found that I liked Safety 1st Baby Nail Clipper
s for his toes and the Sassy Soft Grip Scissors
for his finger nails. And these scissors held up far better than other scissors I had tried out.
So there you have it, my bare essentials registry. I am going to try to get the others done some time in the next week or so and will link them all together.
I am going to have a few different ones. The one in this post is the bare bones these are the things you need to reasonably raise a baby. And of course all that a baby truly needs is a boob or bottle of formula, some diapers, and a safe place to sleep with something to wear to keep it warm. This list will have more than that but not all the bells and whistles that make having a baby easier on the parents or are just nice to have if you have the finances to get them. That one will come next maybe this weekend, possibly next week, at some point. Then I will probably do another one for the luxury type items such as my awesome glider/ottoman combo or the adorable bedding set that is useless but adorable or the nursing cover that I never used but had to have.
Edited to add the two other registries mentioned above.
Expanded Edition
Super Duper Expanded Edition
Also if you have or plan to have registries from more than one store, be sure to check out Baby List http://babyli.st/a/BL305. You can add items from any store. This would have been awesome for me since I had a registry at one online store and two brick and mortar stores. I ended up putting multiple items on each of the registries and then having to stalk them, delete things, and then had a lot of returns. There was just things from each store that I couldn't get elsewhere.
Edited to add the two other registries mentioned above.
Expanded Edition
Super Duper Expanded Edition
Also if you have or plan to have registries from more than one store, be sure to check out Baby List http://babyli.st/a/BL305. You can add items from any store. This would have been awesome for me since I had a registry at one online store and two brick and mortar stores. I ended up putting multiple items on each of the registries and then having to stalk them, delete things, and then had a lot of returns. There was just things from each store that I couldn't get elsewhere.
Feel free to comment and let me know if the things on this were necessities for you or not and what things you would add to the list. I might just add them in case some pregnant first time mom stumbles across this post one day. I know when they handed me the little you need this crap list when I first started my registry I was like there is no way that a baby needs the sheer amounts of crap on that list. I mean one of the ones I looked at with my sister the other day had 2-4 sheets, 1-2 waterproof mattress pads, and 2 sheet savers. Or 4-8 swaddle or receiving blankets, 4 crib blankets (and really what is that?), and 2 wearable blankets. Holy blankets to register for especially with that being an item that you typically get a lot of anyways at baby showers or as new baby gifts.
So without further ado here is my list of the must have baby items (and a link to my favorite items in that category in some instances in case you are wondering. Feel free to ask why I like that particular one. I love to share my thoughts.)
In the clothes category, there are none. Shower guests like to buy cute little outfits for you. Also clothes are hard to find from a registry in a store since they are on racks typically and not numbered aisles. I will do a post down the road on what I consider newborn clothing necessities though so stay tuned.
Nursery
Crib
My crib isn't sold on Amazon, but is Baby Cache brand and I love it.
Crib mattress
Sorry guys no opinion on this. A friend gave me their like new mattress and it worked for us.
Sorry guys no opinion on this. A friend gave me their like new mattress and it worked for us.
Swaddle blankets(Receiving blankets which you typically get in abundance at showers also work for this unless you can NOT swaddle a baby like me and then actual swaddling blankets are a necessity.) I absolutely loved the summer infant swaddle blanket. I would get at least two in case baby dirties one and you don't feel like doing laundry immediately.
(Receiving blankets which you typically get in abundance at showers also work for this unless you can NOT swaddle a baby like me and then actual swaddling blankets are a necessity.) I absolutely loved the summer infant swaddle blanket. I would get at least two in case baby dirties one and you don't feel like doing laundry immediately.
Travel
Car seat (For a bare minimum registry, I would go with a convertible seat since you can use it for a newborn and then on through toddler hood.) My recommendation is the Diono radian RXT. I love this car seat far more than I probably should.
(For a bare minimum registry, I would go with a convertible seat since you can use it for a newborn and then on through toddler hood.) My recommendation is the Diono radian RXT. I love this car seat far more than I probably should.
Diaper bag I have a Carter's Fashion Tote Bag and really like it and it wasn't completely outrageously priced which I liked even more.
I have a Carter's Fashion Tote Bag and really like it and it wasn't completely outrageously priced which I liked even more.
Baby gear
Baby swing (This truly isn't a necessity, but since my kid didn't sleep except in his swing for the first five months of his life I am inclined to think it was necessary.) My recommendation is the Fisher-Price Snugabunny Cradle 'N Swing, This was the only thing that kept my sanity the first two months.
(This truly isn't a necessity, but since my kid didn't sleep except in his swing for the first five months of his life I am inclined to think it was necessary.) My recommendation is the Fisher-Price Snugabunny Cradle 'N Swing, This was the only thing that kept my sanity the first two months. |
| Worth it's weight in gold |
Feeding
Breastfeeding
Breast pads I recommend the Lansinoh Nursing Pads. They worked quite well for me even though I think I am going to try to use cloth nursing pads next time around.
Lanolin I recommend the Lansinoh Nursing Pads. They worked quite well for me even though I think I am going to try to use cloth nursing pads next time around. My favorite type was Lansinoh Lanolin. **You can also use olive oil and it works well!
Nursing pillow
(This could be contested but I had such trouble with latching Kai at first that it was necessary.)I really loved my Boppy Pillow. I used it until Destructo was quite big and never had problems.
Burp cloths My favorite were actually not burp clothes, but old time cloth diapers. These were large enough for even large messes, but absorbed well and folded small and compactly.
My favorite were actually not burp clothes, but old time cloth diapers. These were large enough for even large messes, but absorbed well and folded small and compactly.
If you are going to be a working mom, then I would add these items:
Breast milk bags I used Lansinoh breast milk bags
and never had problems with them.
**I did notice last time I was at Target that they had a store brand milk bag that was considerably cheaper. I have asked two pregnant friends to try them out and report back to me.
I used Lansinoh breast milk bags and never had problems with them.**I did notice last time I was at Target that they had a store brand milk bag that was considerably cheaper. I have asked two pregnant friends to try them out and report back to me.
Breast pump I used and loved (you know when I didn't hate being a milk cow) the Medela Pump in Style Advanced. It got me through exclusively pumping for the few weeks and then pumping while I was at work from 3 months to a year and was still going strong.
**Check with your insurance to see if you can get a good pump provided by them. In talking with friends it seems to be hit or miss with what they provide, but it is worth a call. The money is well worth it to get a double electric pump if you are going to be a working mom and have to pump every day.
I used and loved (you know when I didn't hate being a milk cow) the Medela Pump in Style Advanced. It got me through exclusively pumping for the few weeks and then pumping while I was at work from 3 months to a year and was still going strong. **Check with your insurance to see if you can get a good pump provided by them. In talking with friends it seems to be hit or miss with what they provide, but it is worth a call. The money is well worth it to get a double electric pump if you are going to be a working mom and have to pump every day.
Bottles I recommend The First Years Breastflow bottles. These actually helped improve Destructo's latch when he was having nipple confusion issues switching between bottle and breast. I made due with two 5 oz bottles and two 9 oz bottles and just washed them nightly.
s.
Bottle brush I loved Munchkin Deluxe Bottle Brush as it had a big one and then a teeny tiny one that fit inside the bigger one with a suction cup to stick to the sink.
I loved Munchkin Deluxe Bottle Brush as it had a big one and then a teeny tiny one that fit inside the bigger one with a suction cup to stick to the sink.
Bottle feeding
For exclusive bottle feeding, I would recommend having at least a set of four small bottles and a set of four big bottles since you use a lot more. I would also use a different type of bottle if I was formula feeding. I would use Playtex Playtex VentAire bottles. I loved these when I worked at the daycare and they have a lot less parts than the Breastflow ones.
**Oh and I forgot to add that babies can be quite picky about bottles. It can be a lot of trial and error in finding one that they like so this could be something that you put two different brands or at least keep in mind to not open any except one pack to try them out until you know if baby will take that kind. Tape any gift receipts to the package in case baby hates them.
**Oh and I forgot to add that babies can be quite picky about bottles. It can be a lot of trial and error in finding one that they like so this could be something that you put two different brands or at least keep in mind to not open any except one pack to try them out until you know if baby will take that kind. Tape any gift receipts to the package in case baby hates them.
Burp cloths (See above for my recommendations.)
An extra pack of slow flow nipples
Bottle brush (See above)
Solids feeding
For a necessities registry, I would leave all this stuff off since you won't need it until the baby is around six months old.
Diapering
Cloth
Disposables
Baby wipes I always say to put 5 cases of wipes since they don't go bad and you will use them for everything and to put one small pack that you can refill. I used Huggies Natural Care Baby Wipes
. and would recommend them especially since Destructo never had problems with them and he has very sensitive skin. I would have liked to have used Seventh Generation Free & Clear Baby Wipes but they were a lot more expensive and coupons aren't as readily available so I went with the cheaper option.
I always say to put 5 cases of wipes since they don't go bad and you will use them for everything and to put one small pack that you can refill. I used Huggies Natural Care Baby Wipes. and would recommend them especially since Destructo never had problems with them and he has very sensitive skin. I would have liked to have used Seventh Generation Free & Clear Baby Wipes but they were a lot more expensive and coupons aren't as readily available so I went with the cheaper option.
Diapers I wouldn't put any newborn size diapers since you get some from the hospital, these are the ones people end up buying for you if they aren't following a registry, and you just don't know how long your kiddo will be in this size. I would put 2+ boxes of size one, 2+ boxes of size two, etc. I recommend Seventh Generation diapers. They are bleach free and a bit more ecofriendly. But they are pricier and if I had to pick a cheaper option, would most likely pick huggies diapers. In my time at the daycare, these were always the ones that leaked the least.
I wouldn't put any newborn size diapers since you get some from the hospital, these are the ones people end up buying for you if they aren't following a registry, and you just don't know how long your kiddo will be in this size. I would put 2+ boxes of size one, 2+ boxes of size two, etc. I recommend Seventh Generation diapers. They are bleach free and a bit more ecofriendly. But they are pricier and if I had to pick a cheaper option, would most likely pick huggies diapers. In my time at the daycare, these were always the ones that leaked the least.
**If you get gift receipts for diapers, tape them to the box and don't open the box until you need them. That way if your baby grows out of that size before you use them, you can easily return them for a bigger size.
Diaper ointment (2) I have always used Grandma El's and love it. It is ecofriendly and safe for my cloth diapers and it smells awesome.
(2) I have always used Grandma El's and love it. It is ecofriendly and safe for my cloth diapers and it smells awesome.
Bathing
Hooded towels(2) You can use regular towels, but I always liked being able to put the hood part up on Kai's head to help keep him warmer when he was just an itty bitty.
(2) You can use regular towels, but I always liked being able to put the hood part up on Kai's head to help keep him warmer when he was just an itty bitty.
Baby wash clothes (1 pack) I used the Target brand and they have held up well.
(1 pack) I used the Target brand and they have held up well.
Baby body wash (2+) I always used BabyGanics Foamin' Fun Foaming Body Wash & Shampoo. I love that it is plant based so if Kai decides to eat it (which he has) it is safe and it is a lot more ecofriendly as well.
(2+) I always used BabyGanics Foamin' Fun Foaming Body Wash & Shampoo. I love that it is plant based so if Kai decides to eat it (which he has) it is safe and it is a lot more ecofriendly as well.
Baby lotion(1+) I always used Seventh Generation Baby Lotion. Ecofriendly (do I sound like a broken record?), safe for baby, and it works well even on my dry hands.
(1+) I always used Seventh Generation Baby Lotion. Ecofriendly (do I sound like a broken record?), safe for baby, and it works well even on my dry hands.
Baby oil (trial size just because it is nice to have on hand if baby has cradle cap)
(trial size just because it is nice to have on hand if baby has cradle cap)
Health
Baby hair brush (1)
Baby nail clippers (1) (1) or baby nail scissors. I found that I liked Safety 1st Baby Nail Clippers for his toes and the Sassy Soft Grip Scissors for his finger nails. And these scissors held up far better than other scissors I had tried out.
Baby thermometer I liked the Vicks Baby Rectal Thermometer. It was very fast and small so I didn't have to worry about hurting him. Once he was a bit bigger, I just used a plain old digital thermometer for under arm temps until I got my forehead thermometer.
Snot sucker(unless you get one at the hospital which you probably will)
(unless you get one at the hospital which you probably will)
Baby gas drops(1+)
I used a lot of these with Destructo since he was a gassy/ refluxy baby. They really did help. I used the Target brand typically.
(1+)
Gripe water (1) This also helps calm newbies stomach aches. I can't remember which brand I used, but it was the one that didn't have to be refrigerated.
(1) This also helps calm newbies stomach aches. I can't remember which brand I used, but it was the one that didn't have to be refrigerated.
Sleeping
I already mentioned swaddle blankets in the nursery category.
Pacifiers (1-2 packs) We used The First Years GumDrop Pacifier and Destructo took to them right away and never looked back.
(1-2 packs) We used The First Years GumDrop Pacifier and Destructo took to them right away and never looked back. So there you have it, my bare essentials registry. I am going to try to get the others done some time in the next week or so and will link them all together.
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