1. Maclaren Stroller
Researching a stroller is a bit like researching a new car, but with far more opinions and contradictory pieces of information. I am convinced that many back-specialists and chiropractors secretly fund the creation of overly short, bulky, or ill-conceived designs, yet much like the wipers on Volvo headlights, they add completely unnecessary gadgets like a temperature gauge. I have a jogging stroller I enjoy, but on the whole find travel systems overly priced and rather unhelpful once Bundle of Joy #2 arrives. Enter: the MacLaren. I have two, and they fold easily, weigh about eight pounds, and can take a lot of abuse.
2. "Hooter Hiders"
Otherwise known a "Udder Blockers" or some other pithy title, these are nursing covers that attach around the neck and have a bit of corset boning around the top to allow you to see your baby. For those thinking, as I foolishly did, "can't I just use a blanket to cover myself?" - unless you are one of the few mutant superheroes who are capable of this feat, once Bundle of Joy can grab and pull, you will be wanting one of these unless you feel like...celebrating...the joys of nursing. Publicly. These are genius, but even I, whose sewing ability peaks at being able to press a peddle and thread a needle, can make one. Or, you can look on Etsy for cheap, cute alternatives that don't cost $40.
3. Cuisinart Mini-Chop
Now, I don't have one of the "it-grows-the-food-and-harvests-it-and-peels-it-and-steams-it-and-stores-it-and-feeds-it" machines that I occasionally lust over in Williams-Sonoma catalogues, but if you can steam a few carrots, just buy a mini-chop. Steam the food, stick it in, chop it, and then put the pureed food in BPA free ice cub trays. Once frozen, remove the plops and stick them in ziploc bags or containers and keep in the freezer for easy serving sizes. Wholesomebabyfood.com is one of my favorite sites for ideas and recipes and 'when to serve what food.'
4. IKEA's Antilop High Chair
This thing is about $29, and another $10 for the tray. It's FANTASTIC. It's cute and easy to clean and inexpensive compared to other versions - like our beautiful wooden maple chair from Amazon which is destined for the burn pile.
5. BumGenius One-Size 4.0 Cloth Diapers with Snaps
I'm all about hugging trees and kissing fish - but I primarily like cloth diapers because they save money, especially if you want more than one kid. I always thought a good friend of mind was sick in the head when she said she loved folding cloth diapers and stacking them nicely - but now I understand. Apparently, I have drunk the kool-aid. And I like it. Once you get into the swing of cloth diapering, it's really easy. And don't spend your money on expensive diaper pails - just get a trash can with handles from Target or WalMart.
6. Soft Shoes
I don't like 'hard' baby shoes - they never stay on my kids, and I always wonder, are they comfortable? And what is the point? So, I LOVE soft shoes. Robeez are still my favorite, and they are the best quality, but there are also great shoes on Etsy, and a fantastic seller on Ebay who sells her shoes for about $10!
7. Play Mats
We have the Rainforest Play Mat, and it is genius. It only entertains them until a year or so, but they are WONDERFUL. Seriously. Get one. It's the best toy for a little baby.
8. KidCo PeaPod
I have a Pac 'n' Play, which is great for room time, corralling a small child who shouldn't otherwise be wandering, or alternative sleeping locations, like my parents' closet. But for traveling - play dates - church - the PeaPod is wonderful. If I had to choose between a Pac 'n' Play and the PeaPod, I would take the PeaPod. It's like a mini-tent that folds into a tiny circle and weighs just a few pounds (unless you like the lug around the Pac 'n' Play like I used to haul my Bass Clarinet onto the bus in Junior High). Be warned: it pops open rather violently, and if you are at all directionally challenged (not compass direction - like, following directions), it can be tricky to fold.
9. Gerber GPA Free NUK Cups and Playex First Sipsters and Munchkin Snack Cups
Best sippy cups that I have used! Minimal spillage, though the Playtex sippies wear out once the little bundle has teeth. The snack cups are fantastic for administering a rushed breakfast without dislocating a shoulder.
10. Evenflo BPA Free Purely Comfi Bottles
Both my kids have loved these. They are BPA Free, reduce air intake, work if you're pumping or using formula, and are inexpensive (unlike some other bottles that will cost you more than the kid). I don't like the nipples that come with them - go with Dr. Brown ones.
There you go! Any other thoughts...?
Leila
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