This weekend, the Twinks will turn four months old. Now that I've had a chance to "test drive" some of the things I bought, I thought I would share some of the items I really like:
Peg Perego Baby Planner - If you are early in your pregnancy, this is worth the $3.95 shipping. It is different from other baby planning books in that it's not a "diary", but rater a very practical book of information and checklists - such as what to ask when looking for a pediatrician, when hiring a nanny, what to pack in your hospital bag, etc. I didn't find this book until almost at the end of my pregnancy, but wish I had come across it sooner.
Things to Pack in Your Hospital Bag for Delivery
Pumping Bra - You definitely want to be sure to pack one of these in your hospital bag, as holding the pumping cups to your breasts for 10-15 minutes every 3 hours is bor-ring. Someone suggested buying a cheap sports bra and cutting holes in it. Great idea!
Lip Balm - Maybe it's the change in your body's chemistry or just our dry air out here, but I appreciated having lip balm with me.
Ear Plugs / Eye Shades - Don't worry, you'll still hear the babies cry.
Fluffy Robe / Slippers - Much better than scooting around the halls in a hospital gown.
Camera with Charged Batteries - This may sound obvious, but I almost forgot mine.
iPad / MP3 Player - You will have some down time (not much, but a little).
Feeding
Dr. Browns Bottles - Yes, they do have more parts to wash, but my babies have done well on them. At four months, my babies are still eating every 3 hours. So, if you are having twins and don't want to be doing "baby dishes" constantly, buy at least 18 of these (they come in packs of 3). Since my twins moved to the 8 ounce bottles at about 10 weeks, I would skip buying the 4 ounce bottles and go straight to the 8 oz. ones - just fill them less.
Dr. Browns Microwave Sanitizer - This is much faster than my counter top model and holds much more.
The First Years MiSwivel Chair - This is some of the best money we've spent. You can purchase this chair for less than $50 at some Wal-Marts or online (just do a google search for "MiSwivel" on the Wal-Mart site). The chair has a five-point harness and reclines about 30 degrees. The cushions are reversible (good to tell them apart if you have twins and purchase two). With removable cushions and straps (that I throw in the wash) and a plastic base, it is a breeze to clean. Love it, love it, love it!
Bibs - My little girl pukes - lots. So, for her I prefer the Tommee Tippee "Closer to Nature" ones but they're costly. When buying bibs, I would recommend buying the plastic-backed ones because the ones that are just terry cloth tend to leak through.
Munchkin Bottle Warmer - When I got home from the hospital, I was microwaving water and letting the bottles sit to warm. I quickly learned that when my little girl wants her bottle, she wants it NOW!!! This bottle warmer takes about two minutes - still not fast enough for her, but faster than the hot-water-microwave method.
Sleeping
SwaddleDesigns Ultimate Receiving Blanket - These were a gift from a best friend who has three kids. I swaddle my twins in these 100% cotton fleece blankets every night. I like them much better than the Aden & Anis blankets because they are just as large (47 X 47) and stay closed. These are a must-have! (Note - the link is only to one design. Search on Amazon and you'll find more designs and colors).
Gerber Zippered Sleep-n-Plays - You can find these at Target in adorable prints for boys and girls. Some babies are allergic to synthetic fabrics. By dressing my babies in these all-cotton sleep-n-plays, I didn't run that risk. Personally, I prefer zippers to snaps because I find them easier, but I know some parents prefer snaps - your choice. They are inexpensive (less than $15 for 3) and hold up well wash-after-wash.
Rain Forest Mobile / Brilliant Basics Mobile - Do NOT buy the wind-up mobiles that match your bedding - total waste of money because they stay on for less than two minutes. Invest in a mobile that you can use for years to come. My son has the Rain Forest Mobile and thinks it's the best thing on the planet. He can stare at it for an hour and not get bored. My daughter has the Brilliant Basics one. They both run for about 10 minutes before shutting off and the "mobile" on both detach so that it becomes a music box for when the kids get older. I prefer the Rain Forest one because it has a light - so it's easier to see at night.
Clothes
Sleep Sacks - I bought a bunch of Halo newborn sleep sacks and within two months, my twins had already outgrown them. My advice here is that you will probably be doing laundry every day or two, so don't buy too many like I did (or buy them used).
Circo Socks - These are sold at Target for about $1 per pair and they are the only socks that will stay on my twins feet.
Zutano Booties - Yes, expensive (about $20 / pair), but oh so cute...and they stay on their feet.
Health & Beauty
Baby Comfy Nose & Saline Nose Drops - This should be at the top of your list. It's a little plastic bulb that allows you to clean your baby's nose. Much better than the bulbs they give you at the hospital. I use it all the time.
Mustella Baby Wash - It smells oh so good!
Aquafor Baby - Yes, it's greasy, but it's keep their skin soft and smooth.
Hope this gets some of you started on your registry lists!
Showing posts with label shopping. Show all posts
Showing posts with label shopping. Show all posts
Thursday, March 8, 2012
Saturday, November 5, 2011
If You're Pregnant, Order This "Free" Planner
This weekend, we went to a new baby store that recently opened in our city and they gave me a free copy of Peg Perego's baby planner. I SO wish I had this book nine months ago!
It's jam packed with useful info, checklists and suggestions, like what to ask when interviewing child care providers, what different vitamins are and why you might want to take them, meds that are safe to take during pregnancy, what to pack in your hospital bag, a place to record names and telephone numbers of who you want your DH or family to call when you give birth, lists of things to do as soon as your baby is born, etc.
If you don't have this already, I strongly suggest paying the $3.95 shipping to order one: [url]http://www.pegperegoplanner.com/your-free-planner[/url]
I do not have any type of affiliation with Peg Perego, nor do I benefit in any way from you requesting a copy of this book. I was just so impressed with the info that I thought other pregnant women might find it helpful too.
It's jam packed with useful info, checklists and suggestions, like what to ask when interviewing child care providers, what different vitamins are and why you might want to take them, meds that are safe to take during pregnancy, what to pack in your hospital bag, a place to record names and telephone numbers of who you want your DH or family to call when you give birth, lists of things to do as soon as your baby is born, etc.
If you don't have this already, I strongly suggest paying the $3.95 shipping to order one: [url]http://www.pegperegoplanner.com/your-free-planner[/url]
I do not have any type of affiliation with Peg Perego, nor do I benefit in any way from you requesting a copy of this book. I was just so impressed with the info that I thought other pregnant women might find it helpful too.
Thursday, October 6, 2011
The Find....
I am quickly learning that staying home when you don't yet have a baby (or babies) to take care of is dangerous for the pocket book because I now have the time to scour the web for "necessities" that I see on sale.
For example, I have been told that in lieu of a diaper bag, many women find it easier to use a canvas tote - so yesterday I became aware of a sale at Land's End and found an extra-large, zippered tote in natural and brown (the color I would have ordered anyway) that was half-price at $25! Having a coupon for free shipping made it irresistible - so it's on it's way:
I was also reading a message board about restraining toddlers who are now walking and demand their independence - which also means "running away" from their parents in milli-seconds is a good idea!
The general opinion was that using harnesses for small children was perfectly acceptable - much better than putting any child in danger. In fact, many children feel "grown up" with their "backpack" on.
One woman talked about being in an airport bathroom and stopping a toddler who was in the stall with her Mom, ducked under the door and decided to explore on her own. Fortunately, the woman was able to cut the toddler off at the door while the Mom was pulling up her pants in a panic. Other parents told similar stories about how they had no doubt that having their kids attached to a harness saved their kids lives - multiple times.
Of course, an image immediately ran through my mind of being in a store by myself and having one Twink zig while the other zagged. So, even though we won't need them for at least 18 months, I searched for and saw the following two Gold Bug harnesses for less than half-price and ordered them:
I am also quickly learning that when you see something you really like for your babies, buy it - because you might not see it again. For example, a few months ago I saw a Fisher-Price 2-in-1 Swing & Rocker in Wal-Mart where the swing chair is detachable and converts into a free-standing rocker - so when the baby falls asleep, I could easily carry the baby to where I am working without having to wake him or her up. It was one of the last ones, so I bought it. Sure enough, they haven't restocked it and I haven't seen a detachable swing like it since.
Today, I met friend for lunch and was near my local Goodwill - so I stopped in for a gander. Since it's important for us to have a "library" from which to read to our children starting as soon as possible, I am always on the hunt for inexpensive children's books in good condition. Instead, I found the deal of the of the day! A hand-made ride-on wood horse for $13! The neck has a pin system that allows the toddler to swivel the front half and turn. It's clear some little child was very much loved by his Dad, Grandpa or Uncle (ok, maybe it's not right for me to assume a man made this - I am sure a woman can make this too - but it's comforting me to think about a grey-haired man in his workshop smiling while cutting, sanding, assembling, and staining)...and now our kids get to ride on it! (Can you tell I am excited?!)
For example, I have been told that in lieu of a diaper bag, many women find it easier to use a canvas tote - so yesterday I became aware of a sale at Land's End and found an extra-large, zippered tote in natural and brown (the color I would have ordered anyway) that was half-price at $25! Having a coupon for free shipping made it irresistible - so it's on it's way:
I was also reading a message board about restraining toddlers who are now walking and demand their independence - which also means "running away" from their parents in milli-seconds is a good idea!
The general opinion was that using harnesses for small children was perfectly acceptable - much better than putting any child in danger. In fact, many children feel "grown up" with their "backpack" on.
One woman talked about being in an airport bathroom and stopping a toddler who was in the stall with her Mom, ducked under the door and decided to explore on her own. Fortunately, the woman was able to cut the toddler off at the door while the Mom was pulling up her pants in a panic. Other parents told similar stories about how they had no doubt that having their kids attached to a harness saved their kids lives - multiple times.
Of course, an image immediately ran through my mind of being in a store by myself and having one Twink zig while the other zagged. So, even though we won't need them for at least 18 months, I searched for and saw the following two Gold Bug harnesses for less than half-price and ordered them:
I am also quickly learning that when you see something you really like for your babies, buy it - because you might not see it again. For example, a few months ago I saw a Fisher-Price 2-in-1 Swing & Rocker in Wal-Mart where the swing chair is detachable and converts into a free-standing rocker - so when the baby falls asleep, I could easily carry the baby to where I am working without having to wake him or her up. It was one of the last ones, so I bought it. Sure enough, they haven't restocked it and I haven't seen a detachable swing like it since.
Today, I met friend for lunch and was near my local Goodwill - so I stopped in for a gander. Since it's important for us to have a "library" from which to read to our children starting as soon as possible, I am always on the hunt for inexpensive children's books in good condition. Instead, I found the deal of the of the day! A hand-made ride-on wood horse for $13! The neck has a pin system that allows the toddler to swivel the front half and turn. It's clear some little child was very much loved by his Dad, Grandpa or Uncle (ok, maybe it's not right for me to assume a man made this - I am sure a woman can make this too - but it's comforting me to think about a grey-haired man in his workshop smiling while cutting, sanding, assembling, and staining)...and now our kids get to ride on it! (Can you tell I am excited?!)
If nothing else, it looks great in the nursery right now! Thank you mystery donor...we will LOVE this!
Saturday, August 6, 2011
Newborn Top 100 and May Your Souls Rest in Peace
As a parent-to-be, I've spent lots of time thinking about what we "really" need vs. what the baby stores make you think you need.
Today, I came across this list and I think it's the best one I've seen so far.
Babble Top 100 Newborn Items List
I've been building our registry and, so far, it pretty closely matches this list. Good to know my "shopping" head is where it should be right now.
Yesterday marked the end of 23 weeeks. Only about three months till the twinks are here. HOLY COW!!! I can't believe it!
This week, I definitely noticed that the morning sickness is getting better. It's not completely gone, but much better. I have started to get short of breath sometimes and am noticing I am getting tired again. The other morning, I slept till 8 am
(very unlikely for me).
Today we found the perfect lamp and a ceiling fan for the nursery. The power box isn't the right kind, but my neighbor, who's a handyman, is going to come Tuesday to install it.
The dogs are finally getting along much better (still a couple growls from my male, but nothing like two weeks ago, when we first brought her home) - so it looks like my husband has accepted Ellie is here to stay.
Tonight, my thoughts are with the Navy Seals who went down on the Chinook helicopter attack and their families. Thank you for the ultimate sacrifice you made for your country and our future children. You are true heroes and may your souls rest in peace.
Today, I came across this list and I think it's the best one I've seen so far.
Babble Top 100 Newborn Items List
I've been building our registry and, so far, it pretty closely matches this list. Good to know my "shopping" head is where it should be right now.
Yesterday marked the end of 23 weeeks. Only about three months till the twinks are here. HOLY COW!!! I can't believe it!
This week, I definitely noticed that the morning sickness is getting better. It's not completely gone, but much better. I have started to get short of breath sometimes and am noticing I am getting tired again. The other morning, I slept till 8 am
(very unlikely for me).
Today we found the perfect lamp and a ceiling fan for the nursery. The power box isn't the right kind, but my neighbor, who's a handyman, is going to come Tuesday to install it.
The dogs are finally getting along much better (still a couple growls from my male, but nothing like two weeks ago, when we first brought her home) - so it looks like my husband has accepted Ellie is here to stay.
Tonight, my thoughts are with the Navy Seals who went down on the Chinook helicopter attack and their families. Thank you for the ultimate sacrifice you made for your country and our future children. You are true heroes and may your souls rest in peace.
Saturday, June 4, 2011
Another week gone by...
Has it really been almost a week since I last posted? I didn't even realize!!! I guess between taking last Friday off and the holiday last Monday, I lost track of time. I just checked my ticker last week and can't believe it...I'm in my 15th week already!!!
First, a huge congratulations to RD on the birth of her baby girl the other day! My eyes filled with tears as soon as I read her brief birth announcement the other day. I am so, so happy for all of you!
HopefulinColorado, you're next! Hope you make it these last few single-digit days!
Second, I want to shout out to Auntie Em and her babies and let them know I am so relieved that they are doing ok (I know many of you read her blog too).
Third, for those of you who have been following my story for awhile, you've known that there was only one co-worker who knew because his wife saw me at the RE's office. Well, she's down to the last few weeks of her pregnancy and her baby shower is tomorrow. Since I feel like I now have a special connection to this baby, I don't think I've ever been so excited to attend a baby shower!
OK, now on to my world...lots going on.
I am getting my energy back and the nausea has become MUCH BETTER since my Dr. wrote me a prescription for Zofran. I definitely have a baby bump and can pick up heartbeats (not sure if it's the same one, but I'd like to think that I can pick up both) pretty easily.
We had our last appointment with our regular OB last Tuesday and this time he made a video (at my insistence). I was hoping to spruce it up a bit with some music and subtitles, but my knowledge is not that technologically advanced - so click here if you wish to see the "raw vanilla" version.
We got the good news on Tuesday that we were accepted into the high-risk practice, so I have my first appointment on Monday. It's going to be a long one - over two hours! I'll get to see the twinkies again! Can't wait!
This week has been one of the most fun ever because I told most of my extended family, friends and people at work. This may sound silly, but I've been overcome and stunned by their reactions and how happy they are for us! I wasn't expecting it, at all...
It's still too early to feel kicks, but I expect that will happen in the next 2-4 weeks. The other question people immediately ask is "Are they boys, girls, or one of each?" The more we've thought about it, the more we want to be surprised - so I'm pretty sure we're leaning toward not finding out. We are so happy to be pregnant, and over-the-moon excited that it's twins, that we honestly don't care. Really.
The Nursery
I haven't been doing much shopping, but this week I purchased an Arm's Reach Co-Sleeper off Craig's List for a great price. The couple said their daughter hardly used it - so it's nearly brand new. Most parents have given this item rave-reviews and it was highly recommended in the "Baby Bargains" book too. So, if we don't have cribs as soon as the little ones arrive, we'll be ok.
Later this week, painters come to paint the interior of our house. We are going to leave the nursery the same color the previous owners painted it (they didn't have kids) - a very pale blue called Silverpointe. It is neutral enough to go with just about any other "baby" color - pink, blue, brown, lavender, yellow.
Final Thoughts
I know that many women who follow this blog are still somewhere in the beginning or middle of their journey. I wish that there eventually comes a day where no woman has to go through the uncertainty, pain, tears and heartbreak it took for us to get here. Being on "this side of the fence" is one of the most amazing experiences of my life. Each day, I still wake up and pinch myself to convince myself that this is really happening.
I assume that someday, some woman struggling with infertility is going to look at our family and ask "why me" - just like I did thousands of times myself. I almost wish there was a bubble above my head to tell these women what it took for us to get here and not to assume it was so easy.
Know that I am saying the above out of a very deep care and love for all of you who are still going through the process. My thoughts, hopes and prayers are with you.
First, a huge congratulations to RD on the birth of her baby girl the other day! My eyes filled with tears as soon as I read her brief birth announcement the other day. I am so, so happy for all of you!
HopefulinColorado, you're next! Hope you make it these last few single-digit days!
Second, I want to shout out to Auntie Em and her babies and let them know I am so relieved that they are doing ok (I know many of you read her blog too).
Third, for those of you who have been following my story for awhile, you've known that there was only one co-worker who knew because his wife saw me at the RE's office. Well, she's down to the last few weeks of her pregnancy and her baby shower is tomorrow. Since I feel like I now have a special connection to this baby, I don't think I've ever been so excited to attend a baby shower!
OK, now on to my world...lots going on.
I am getting my energy back and the nausea has become MUCH BETTER since my Dr. wrote me a prescription for Zofran. I definitely have a baby bump and can pick up heartbeats (not sure if it's the same one, but I'd like to think that I can pick up both) pretty easily.
We had our last appointment with our regular OB last Tuesday and this time he made a video (at my insistence). I was hoping to spruce it up a bit with some music and subtitles, but my knowledge is not that technologically advanced - so click here if you wish to see the "raw vanilla" version.
We got the good news on Tuesday that we were accepted into the high-risk practice, so I have my first appointment on Monday. It's going to be a long one - over two hours! I'll get to see the twinkies again! Can't wait!
This week has been one of the most fun ever because I told most of my extended family, friends and people at work. This may sound silly, but I've been overcome and stunned by their reactions and how happy they are for us! I wasn't expecting it, at all...
It's still too early to feel kicks, but I expect that will happen in the next 2-4 weeks. The other question people immediately ask is "Are they boys, girls, or one of each?" The more we've thought about it, the more we want to be surprised - so I'm pretty sure we're leaning toward not finding out. We are so happy to be pregnant, and over-the-moon excited that it's twins, that we honestly don't care. Really.
The Nursery
I haven't been doing much shopping, but this week I purchased an Arm's Reach Co-Sleeper off Craig's List for a great price. The couple said their daughter hardly used it - so it's nearly brand new. Most parents have given this item rave-reviews and it was highly recommended in the "Baby Bargains" book too. So, if we don't have cribs as soon as the little ones arrive, we'll be ok.
Later this week, painters come to paint the interior of our house. We are going to leave the nursery the same color the previous owners painted it (they didn't have kids) - a very pale blue called Silverpointe. It is neutral enough to go with just about any other "baby" color - pink, blue, brown, lavender, yellow.
Final Thoughts
I know that many women who follow this blog are still somewhere in the beginning or middle of their journey. I wish that there eventually comes a day where no woman has to go through the uncertainty, pain, tears and heartbreak it took for us to get here. Being on "this side of the fence" is one of the most amazing experiences of my life. Each day, I still wake up and pinch myself to convince myself that this is really happening.
I assume that someday, some woman struggling with infertility is going to look at our family and ask "why me" - just like I did thousands of times myself. I almost wish there was a bubble above my head to tell these women what it took for us to get here and not to assume it was so easy.
Know that I am saying the above out of a very deep care and love for all of you who are still going through the process. My thoughts, hopes and prayers are with you.