Happy Birthday, Bailey

True, this post is a little late, but I did say and sing "Happy Birthday" to my daughter multiple times on the actual day. That's got to count for something, right?

I remember looking back on Bailey's first year in awe of how much had happened and how much she had grown in 12 short months. Now, I'm stunned at just how much can change from one toddler birthday to the next.

From a tiny little bobble-headed newborn to a beautiful, funny little girl, this kid amazes and impresses me daily. At newly 2, she was just learning to connect her words and expand her vocabulary. As a 3 year old, she can not only string together a sentence like nobody's business, but she also creates stories, makes up songs, and tells jokes. She's even been known to play a trick or two on unsuspecting parents.

She's a great big sister (when she doesn't have her little bro in a chokehold) and she's smart. Her sense of direction is better than mine - I don't mean better than mine was at her age; I mean it's better than mine is now.

This year will be filled with laughter, accomplishments, frustrations, and fun alike. I'm excited to watch my sweet daughter continue to learn and explore her personality. I love you, Bailey. Happy birthday!

Potty Training: To Pee or Not to Pee?

Potty training. Depending where you are in your phase of parenthood, you either read those two little words and: a) wistfully smiled in your naivety; b) shuddered; or c) sighed in remembered relief that those days are now behind you.

If you answered A, I feel your current struggle. You’re worried the cost of diapers will put you in the poor house. Well, you’re in luck; those monetarily-challenged residents probably don’t want your bare-bottomed babe snuggling up to them – not while she’s as likely to inflict a deluge of poop as the peskiest of pigeons. Right, then. Now you’re worried the cost, and subsequent lack, of diapers will move you to the outhouse. Super.

If you answered B, I empathize with your struggle. You’ve dived into the world of teaching a tiny person how to pee into a large pot. Not only that, but you’ve also resigned yourself to sidling up beside said tot on an uncomfortable bathtub or a too-small step stool. You’ve accepted the fact that sometimes you’ll need to read five stories before she will rid herself of the poop that just last week took seconds to push into a diaper. Oh, and don’t forget the never-ending supply of candy it takes to positively reinforce the idea that using the potty is amazing. (By the way, I feel it necessary to mention that my own 2 year old matter-of-factly told me that grown-ups don’t get candy for going on the potty. That’s just what we do.)

If you answered C, I applaud you for making it to the other side. I also smile in my own wistful naivety at the idea that it will get easier by the time I stand where you are. (I’ll continue when you’re finished laughing.)

While potty training is certainly not without its challenges (keep the Lysol handy for those living room floor accidents), it can also be pretty great in the end. Yes, saving money on diapers is awesome, but it’s more than that. It’s the first time that tiny person tugs at your arm and says, “Mommy, I gotta go potty!” (Which is also the time when you realize what a fast sprinter you are.) It’s the way she beams at having done it all by herself. It’s the truly special sense of pride you feel knowing that your child is becoming an independent person, capable of anything.

Ok, so maybe potty training isn’t so bad, after all.

The Florida Aquarium Launches Impressive New Learning Center

I was recently invited to a special media preview of the new Carol J. and Barney Barnett Learning Center at the Florida Aquarium. The opinions expressed are my own.

Last week, I took off work on a Wednesday and played hooky with my kids. (Does it count as "playing hooky" if your boss knows about it?) I was invited to preview the new Carol J. and Barney Barnett Learning Center at the Florida Aquarium before it officially opened. I wasn't sure how well I would be able to wrangle 2 kids under 3 in such a setting, but I was pleasantly surprised at just how focused they are on kids there. It makes sense, of course, but it's still always a nice surprise.

The writer in me would love to come up with a clever way to describe it, but the simple truth is that this new Learning Center is just plain cool. It covers more than 5,000 square feet and is dedicated to educating kids in a fun and creative way. Among other things, it will be used for school field trips, preschool classes, summer camps, sleepovers, birthday parties, scout workshops, and teacher professional development programs.

It is comprised of five learning spaces (four classrooms and one lab), each designed in a unique and interesting way to engage kids and keep them focused. Each room also has an impressive 70" Mondo Pad (a fully networked touch screen computer).

In My Backyard is specially designed for younger kids (pre-K through first grade). The walls are adorned with an outdoor mural of grass and trees and a large oak, positioned near the door, welcomes kids into an exciting learning space that feels more like their backyard than a classroom. The small tables also exhibited some animals likely to be found while playing out back, such as a hermit crab and a tarantula. Aside from the oak, my favorite aspect of this room was the tiny camping tent (reading nook, anyone?) nestled beneath. Bailey enjoyed hopping around this room and inspecting the critters.

Bailey checking out some animals in the In My Backyard room.

Even Parker had a great time hanging out.

The Open Ocean room was hands-down my daughter's favorite. Bailey absolutely loved the blue lighting and underwater mural. The overall atmosphere of the room takes kids deeper into the ocean from one end to the other. Once they reach the far side of the classroom, they feel as though they've dived into the far depths of the blue unknown.

    

Digging through sargassum in the Open Ocean room.

Impressive lighting and paint even make the room glow to showcase the bioluminescent coolness that some of these creatures boast. Even if the younger kids don't appreciate the scuba diver suspended from the ceiling (whose face, I'm told, actually bears a certain likeness to Jacques Cousteau), they'll certainly enjoy digging through the buckets of sargassum to find small (toy) fish, crabs, and seahorses. True to life, they even included bits of plastic and trash to get kids thinking about the consequences of polluting our oceans. Bailey, only 2, understood that idea so well that she picked out the bits of garbage and handed them to a kind staff member. This room, as you may have guessed, is all about sensory experience

The Coastal Florida room features a boardwalk jetting out from the wall and even the tile flooring, a beautiful blue that leads into a soft yellow, represents the transition from sea to sand. There's no doubt about it - kids know where they stand while in this room. Its focus is to teach kids about the early stages of turtles, including nesting behavior and life as a hatchling.

The Green Room, designed to resemble an actual field station where an overworked sea turtle might get a little R&R (&R) - that is, rescue, research, and rehabilitation - focuses on conservation and teaching kids how they can help to protect our sea life.

The Green Room

The Lab was also a great addition and crafted with children in mind. The table heights are adjustable and made with anti-spill ledges. Additionally, each one is set up so that the instructor is no more than eight feet from any table. Also equipped with a Mondo pad, its presence can act as a virtual learning assistant for those who aren't quite ready to dissect an animal, but still want to follow along and absorb the experience.

The Lab

Overall, the new Carol J. and Barney Barnett Learning Center was impressive and downright awesome. Through considerable care and attention to detail, the Florida Aquarium did an excellent job of crafting each space into so much more than your typical classroom. Each area is an engaging and creative world conducive to teaching children through hands-on exploration.

And, as if that wasn't enough, our wonderful hosts were so gracious as to let my kids explore the rest of the Florida Aquarium after the event! (Another perk was being able to make a pit-stop in the lobby-based "Mother's Nursing Room" to feed Parker before embarking on our next adventure. Talk about family-friendly!) I have to say a big thank you to them for allowing me to share an unforgettable day with my little ones. (And, if you're not sure whether your kids are old enough to truly enjoy their exhibits, check out my experience visiting with a one year old.)

Note: Bailey and Parker made it into the Tampa Tribune for this event! Check out the story and the awesome photo of us.

Review: Dragonfyre Apothecary - Natural & Organic Skin Care

I recently received Dragonfyre Apothecary's entire line of DragonBaby and DragonMama products for review. I was not compensated for this review, but I did receive the products free of charge. The opinions expressed are my own.

When I received Dragonfyre Apothecary's DragonBaby and DragonMama line of skin care for review, I was pretty excited to see what they were all about. Their products are made with 100% natural and organic ingredients and I felt comfortable using them on my kids. Overall, I was genuinely impressed with each product and would highly recommend them to moms everywhere.

Here is a detailed breakdown of each product and why they get two enthusiastic thumbs up (or at least as enthusiastic as the thumbs of a mom with two kids under 3 can be).

Blazin' Bottoms Fanny Creme

As the mom of a toddler who loves fruit, I have a lot of experience with diaper rash creams. (If you haven't experienced the fiery red butt that accompanies eating a lot of acidic fruit, you've been warned.) I really like the Blazin' Bottoms Fanny Creme because you only need to use a little bit. It comes in a pump bottle which is great for one-handed use - especially since you're probably using your other hand to wrangle a screaming, struggling tot. What I really like about this creme is that it pumps like a lotion, but goes on more like an oil. It absorbs quickly so it's not still glopped on at the next diaper change. It's fast-acting, too. The rash usually clears up after a few applications (rather than days with some other creams).

Head-to-Tail Baby Wash

This wash also comes in a pump bottle which is always a plus in my book. It has a light scent and works well for cleaning your little one's hair and body. Since you don't need to use a lot, you'll find it really goes a long way toward lasting. I use this baby wash on both my toddler and my newborn and I still have plenty left.

DragonBaby Body Creme

Baby lotions are really hit or miss. I've found some that have made me sorely regret slathering my child in what turned out to be a stinky second layer. This body creme is great because it has a pleasant scent that won't overwhelm you or your baby. It's also light and non-greasy and absorbs into the skin quickly.

DragonScales Tea Tree Salve

This salve is recommended to help baby's dry, itchy skin. I actually just used it for the first time on my two month old son and it's really helping. It rubs on smoothly and while there is a scent (I couldn't quite place it, but I imagine it was a combination of the shea butter, chamomile, and other natural ingredients contained in it), it wasn't unpleasant. Since he's so young, I'm hesitant to put creams or lotions on his face. However, since all Dragonfyre Apothecary products are made using only natural and organic ingredients, I felt more comfortable applying this salve to his forehead.

In addition to these great products for baby, they even threw in some pick-me-ups for mom! It was definitely a treat getting to try out some wonderful moisturizers and balms myself.

DragonMama Belly Bump Balm

Since I was already pregnant with my second child (and sporting a full-on mid-section zebra print) by the time I tried this Belly Bump Balm, I don't know whether it helps to reduce stretch marks. What I do know is that it's wonderful for moisturizing and alleviating the annoying itchy belly that accompanies pregnancy. Plus, the scent of lemongrass was relaxing and left me wanting an Italian ice! The great thing about this balm is that it's not just for the belly; it can be used anywhere that needs some extra moisture. To be honest, I used it on my feet (their residual dryness a lingering gift from my days as a waitress) and on my knees (which have been severely dry ever since my daughter started crawling). I've tried plenty of other lotions, creams, and balms for those areas and none have worked as well (or as quickly) as the Belly Bump Balm. I'm a big fan!

Moiste Facial Moisturizer

The Moiste Facial Moisturizer and Andswere Prestige Hyaluronan Serum (see below) are the epitome of a great power couple. Try them separately and try them together. They're amazing! The moisturizer is a light and airy lotion that doesn't feel at all greasy when applied. One of the main reasons I've never been a big fan of facial lotions is because they tend to leave me feeling greasy, dirty, and weighed down. Not this one. It absorbs quickly and leaves your skin feeling clean. There is a noticeable difference in the dryness of my skin on days when I don't use this moisturizer. Combined with the Andswere Prestige Hyaluronan Serum your skin will feel soft, smooth, and hydrated. Don't have the serum? It also works great on its own.

Andswere Prestige Hyaluronan Serum

Like the Moiste Facial Moisturizer, the Andswere Prestige Hyaluronan Serum is a light and non-greasy anti-aging serum which promotes collagen synthesis and cell regeneration. It has a faint, but pleasant, scent, and it absorbs quickly. While I'm still a ways from worrying about lines and wrinkles (I just turned 30, after all), I love this serum and use it daily for the benefits of its hydrating and cleansing effects. When combined with the Moiste Facial Moisturizer, it's a real treat for your skin!

For more information or to purchase these great items for yourself, visit their website at www.dragonfyreapothecary.com. You can also like them on Facebook or follow them on Twitter and Pinterest!

I'm Back!

Before you judge me for, well, disappearing from the blogging world, you should know I had my second child recently. Hooray for babies! So long sleep! Here I am now trying to catch you up.

Parker Augustine was born a healthy 8 lbs 7 oz and 20" long.

First off, I just want to say how much I love nap time. It's a magical time filled with possibilities, hopes, dreams, and promises. Finally, the little ones are tucked in for an afternoon siesta and the world is suddenly your oyster. You can do anything! Pee alone! Indulge in the snacks you can only eat in secret (unless you want to share half with an adorable tot saying, "Please? A bite?"). Do the laundry! Clean the dishes! Or, in my case, open your laptop for the first time in over a month and catch up on some much needed writing.

It's hard to believe, but my newest addition, Parker, is already 7 weeks old and I'm back at my second full-time job (the first being mommyhood). How did that happen so quickly? And for that matter, how in the world is my oldest about to turn 2?

I thought I had learned a lot about being a parent from my first child, but I'm learning all sorts of new things as a second-time mom. For one thing, your ninja-like reflexes really step it up a notch when you're changing a boy's diaper. The score is still in his favor when it comes to direct hits, but I'm holding my own in the dodging department.

Another thing I'm finding is that I'm much more relaxed this time. With my first, I would leap (literally) over furniture to get to my crying baby when she was hungry. Poor Parker has become known as my "just a second" baby since the patient little guy has to wait at least that long for everything. It's not that I love him any less, but I'm usually tied up pinning his sister to the floor for diaper changes or chasing after her when she sprints off down the sidewalk. I'll get into all of that another day, though.

Today is about jumping back in and doing the only thing you really want me to do - posting pictures of adorable babies. So stay tuned for more posts in the coming weeks!

Don't forget to come out to Barnes & Noble Booksellers at the Brandon mall this Saturday, May 17th from noon to 2:00 p.m. for an author book signing event. I'll be there along with several other local authors so come in and say hi (and maybe buy a book or two!).

A Belated Father's Day Tribute

Even though Father’s Day has passed, it’s never too late for a heartfelt tribute to those wonderful fathers who make our lives so much easier.

As moms, and especially as overwhelmed new moms, we sometimes feel like the weight of the world is on our shoulders (or boobs or hip). It’s easy to get caught up in all the things we’re racing to accomplish before bedtime.

Sometimes we might even feel like we’re the only ones doing anything, especially in the early days when our kids are glued to us. Usually (and hopefully) this isn’t really the case. A good dad can be found hiding in the shadows helping us in ways we may not even realize. They don’t always advertise what they’re doing which is why sometimes we miss it entirely.

Today, and really everyday, we need to take a minute to stop and notice the little things our husbands do for us. When he washes the baby bottles, refills the diaper genie or handles the grocery shopping, he’s doing what he can to lessen the load. When he pays the bills, feeds the baby or does the laundry, he’s silently telling you he loves you.

My husband, for example, does many small things throughout the day that I know about and countless others that I don’t. He doesn’t take credit or gloat or keep score. He works all day in the sun, gets home at 7:00, and cooks dinner the minute he walks in the door. He does these things because he loves his family. He does these things because he’s a good man.

No matter how overwhelmed I may get, I always know he’s in my corner waiting to be tagged in. We aren’t surviving motherhood or fatherhood; we’re discovering parenthood together as a team.

It’s easy to lose sight of these things in the day-to-day rush, but if you can, take the time to thank him for everything he does. He may not ask for the credit, but he will certainly appreciate getting it. And remember to tell him that he’s doing a great job. Just as moms need to hear that we’re not complete failures, so do dads.

So to my husband, Ryan, thank you for everything you do to keep me afloat. Thank you for being such a wonderful husband and for being such an incredible father. Happy (belated) Father’s Day.

Dear Breastfeeding Mom

Dear Breastfeeding Mom:

Wow. You amaze me. There's a special type of dedication required for breastfeeding a newborn. As if housing a tiny stowaway in your womb for nine months and pushing it out like a rocket wasn't enough, you've signed on for another tour of sacrificing your body.

There are certain aspects of breastfeeding that you probably didn't hear about beforehand. The truth is, they may have discouraged you from trying. On the other hand, maybe you read all about them and decided to push forward anyway. In any case, I tip my hat to you.

The first few weeks of nursing were the most difficult as you were both still learning. Maybe your baby had killer instincts and knew exactly what to do. Maybe he needed some help. Maybe she favored the left boob and wouldn't touch the right. Do your local lactation consultants recognize your number? Yeah, you're a dedicated mom.

You probably have a love/hate relationship with your breast pump. I know you feel like a cow constantly being milked. Do your home videos have a soundtrack of that telltale mechanical sucking noise? I hear you.

Nursing in public can be rough. If you do it, you have to deal with judgment, stares, or outright comments from onlookers. If you don't, you may find yourself spending a good bit of time in the backseat of the car while your baby snacks.

If you've gone back to work (or even if you haven't), you may be familiar with fenugreek, nursing tea, and blessed thistle. Maybe you wonder if one of these days you'll turn into a pill from taking so many.

You know better than anyone how much a woman sacrifices to breastfeed her child. Your body. Your time. Your rest. Your independence.

Then again, you understand better than anyone how much you gain from it. Nobody has the same bond with your child that you do. The look in her eyes as she studies your face is precious. She feels safest in your arms. She reaches for you when others hold her. You look at her and see her unconditional love. (Plus, losing that baby weight quickly is a great bonus.)

Whether you breastfed for a week or a year, whether you're still nursing or you've made the switch to formula or milk, you're amazing. It's difficult and requires a lot of work, but the benefits are insurmountable. One look at those big blue eyes or the realization that your child has never been sick reminds you that it's all worth it.

Your child may not thank you now. He may never thank you. But I do. I know what you're going through, what you've been through, and what's on the other side. Don't forget to take the time to recognize your hard work and dedication. You're a wonderful mom. You've done an incredible job so be proud of yourself!

What did you find was the most rewarding part of nursing? What was the most annoying?

Prayers for Corbin

Why would anyone want a child like that? Some babies are born healthy. Some babies are born sick. Whether it's mental or physical, some infants have to work harder than others just to survive.

This question has been posed (sometimes whispered, sometimes not) by some who don't understand why a parent would want to "deal" with a child suffering from one illness or another. They look at life in numbers: the survival rate is low; the medical expenses are high; the life expectancy is short; or the difficult road ahead is long. So why bother?

Because it's your child. Because the moment you hear that heart beat, you promise to love and protect your baby at any cost. Because a parent's love trumps everything.

Photo courtesy of Kara McHenry

A parent whose newborn is clinging to life, hooked up to monitors, and struggling just to breath doesn't see what others might. She isn't weighing the cost of one procedure against the value of her baby's life. He isn't thinking this child will only be a burden to his family. They are parents. They are looking at their tiny miracle and thanking God for such a blessing.

One family in particular comes to mind when I think about this. You may have heard of, or even follow, a popular Facebook family's page, Prayers for corbin. With every post and every picture, I'm amazed at the strength and love shown by Kara and Shane McHenry. Their son, Corbin, was diagnosed with Trisomy 13 (a genetic disorder) and they were told to prepare for a stillbirth. As if they weren't facing enough obstacles, Corbin decided to arrive 8 weeks early... breathing, crying, and shaking his tiny fist at death.

Photo courtesy of Kara McHenry

Everyday has been a struggle and everyday has been a miracle. Kara and Shane chronicle their son's journey through Facebook. They don't let fear overcome. They don't pity themselves. They don't complain about nights spent in the hospital or medical bills. They don't see the limitations others have placed on their child. They just see Corbin - a beautiful little boy who defies the odds every single day. They see their little fighter. They see a blessing who wakes up every morning, makes them smile, and thinks, "Today will be a good day."

Photo courtesy of Kara McHenry

Corbin teaches them patience, love, and humility. He shows them what's truly important in life. He makes them smile and laugh in ways they've never known before.

Photo courtesy of Kara McHenry

This family is an inspiration. Where others might blame God for their hardship, the McHenrys thank Him for every miraculous day they spend with their son.

So why would anyone want a child like that? Because he's their child and he's already perfect.

To learn more about Corbin's journey or to find out how you can help, visit Prayers for corbin or http://www.gofundme.com/2ok1r4.

The First Year: Looking Back

I never thought one year could pass so quickly. It's hard to believe my daughter is already celebrating her first birthday when it still feels like we just brought her home from the hospital. Not only that, but there are still so many things I haven't quite figured out.

I'd like to pause from my usual posts this week to take a look back on Bailey's first year.

Bailey Erin was born on May 21st at 2:21 a.m.

At fours days past my due date, I went into labor the night before my scheduled induction. Four and a half hours after being admitted to the hospital, Bailey Erin arrived - wide-eyed and curious. The feeling of becoming a parent was overwhelming. My stay in the hospital felt surreal. Is she real? Is she really ours? Does she know me? I had loved my little girl for nine months already, but we were just now getting to know each other.

For someone who has always been slightly paranoid when it comes to safety, you can imagine how this has affected me as a parent. My husband and I took shifts sleeping in the hospital (when it was even possible) so there would never be an opportunity for a cat burglar to slink in and steal our baby. Even when she was taken to the nursery for shots and testing, my husband never left her side.

The drive home was an experience. The fifteen minute trek from the hospital took twice as long through back roads and residential streets. With each pebble we drove over I frantically cried, "Careful! Her head is bobbling!"

Looking back now, it's amusing how ridiculous I was about so many things. I remember leaping over furniture in order to reach my rocking chair (and feeding station) when she was hungry. My husband walked in behind me holding a hungry, crying baby and looked at me like I was insane. At that moment, though, nothing was more important than feeding my child.

There have been struggles along the way. Breastfeeding, while completely worth it, presented its own difficulties. Growth spurts took me by surprise; who knew infants had them at two weeks, six weeks, nine weeks, etc.? Luckily, Google and countless moms on message boards helped us out along the way. Our poor kid was riddled with gas pains before we learned milk in my diet was the culprit.

Bailey, overachiever that she is, segued from her first growth spurt to the next. That was a trying month for both mom and boobs. Sleepless nights were (and, sometimes, still are) always rough. It's one thing to get only a few hours of sleep, but it's another to be up at 4 a.m. with a crying baby and no hope for rest.

Aside from the surprises, struggles, and sleep deprivation, there has been more laughter in my home and in my heart over the past year than ever in my life. Considering I'm blessed with a husband who makes me laugh everyday, it's saying something that I laugh even more now that I'm a parent.

This has been the most amazing and rewarding year of my life. My daughter's smiles encourage me to perform the most atrocious dances, but I don't care. When she giggles, my heart swells. When she's soothed by my voice, I feel like a superhero. When she was an infant, I would sing to her to calm her down. I can't describe how incredible it felt to see the way she looked at me as I sang to her.

All of the firsts we've shared together were each special in their own way. Her first smile, the first time she said "Mama", the first wave, when she learned to roll over, sit up, and stand... each has been precious.

I know she's still a baby, but if the first year, with all of its snags and struggles, can fly so quickly, what does that say about each year that gets a bit easier? It's bittersweet to watch her grow up so fast and I need to do everything I can so I don't miss it.

Bailey, you're celebrating your first birthday now, but someday you'll be a mother, too. It's hard, it's scary, and it's incredibly rewarding. Always know that no matter what I do in my life, above all, I will always be proud to be your mother. Happy Birthday.

Overstuffing the Diaper Bag

Diapers. Wipes. Bottle. What more could you need in a diaper bag? If you’re a new mom, the answer is simple: more diapers, extra pacifiers, a change of clothes, a second change of clothes, hand sanitizer, snacks, toys, burp cloths, gas drops, extra bottles, a thermometer… This doesn’t come close to listing everything you’ve got wedged in there. Let’s face it; if the zipper gets halfway across and gives up, you’ve overstuffed your diaper bag.

In the early (and maybe not so early) days, it’s hard to know what items are essential. Sure, you’re only going to the park for a couple of hours, but a lot can happen in 120 minutes. You need to bring three bottles, some snacks, and a jar of baby food “just in case”, right? You never know; all that playing on the swing set might throw your child into a hulk-like feeding frenzy and the fifteen minute drive home just won’t do. Likewise, those five toys (and three books) are necessary for the car ride – your sweetie needs her options so she doesn’t get bored.

We’ve all done this. It’s easy to keep cramming more and more items in that tote “just in case”. But keep this in mind: if the diaper bag weighs more than your kid, you’ve gone overboard.

It’s not your fault. Baby product manufacturers love to mess with our heads. Why else would no one have an all-in-one wipe? Do we really need separate wipes for everything? There’s a wipe for diaper changes, a hand and face wipe, a boogie wipe, a pacifier wipe... Granted, I’d prefer the wipe that cleans my baby’s butt to be separate from the one that sanitizes her pacifier, but what about the rest? If based on cleaning pads alone, a diaper bag can easily bulge in minutes.

While it’s true that you just never know what could happen while you’re out, it’s probably a safe bet that you’d survive if caught in a lost sock emergency. Pack an extra set of clothes, but leave the back-up spare at home.

Even though Mary Poppins and her own magical purse would be proud, you might consider emptying some of those unnecessary items or even switching to a smaller bag. Your back will thank you in the long run. However you decide to pack your sack, here are some items that you’ll want to keep:

·        Diapers

·        Wipes

·        Changing pad

·        Hand sanitizer

·        Bottle

·        Snacks

·        Burp Cloth

·        Gas Drops (essential when they’re still itty bitty)

What have you learned over time? Which items did you find you could ditch and which ones were the must-haves?

Baby Dress-Up: Favorite Pastime of Adults

As a new parent, you may find yourself beginning more sentences with, "There's nothing cuter than..." This is generally true for the moment - until your child does the next ridiculously adorable thing. That's okay; hop on that train and enjoy the ride to Cutesy Town. Junior just did something so sweet that you almost want to puke with pride? No problem; upchuck away and blame it on motion sickness.

Few things in life will ever bring as sincere an "Aw" response as the antics of babies and kids. Skeptical? Just look at footie pajamas, overalls in size 3 months, and baby hoodies. Still not buying it? Try to resist the impractical but oh-so-sweet addition to any infant's pants: the tiny pocket. Operational? Yes. Stylish? Absolutely. Necessary? Of course not. So that tiny towhead doesn't need somewhere to store her leftover cheese puffs (after all, isn't that what cheeks are for?); that doesn't mean we can't bask in its unnecessary glow.

The truth is, babies would be perfectly happy rolling around in nothing but a gummy smile. Baby clothes are purely for the entertainment of adults. No newborn cares whether her socks match her onesie or whether that flower in her hat is the right shade of purple. Likewise, a five-month-old isn't impressed with the drawn on tie on his shirt or the fact that his feet are snuggled inside a pair of Converse.

While most aspects of child rearing are constantly changing (mainly advice and regulations which flip flop more than a pair of Florida sandals), fashionable clothes are now an ever present staple. From pregnancy through parenthood, you can always count on finding snazzy outfits for your tot. Whether it's a blue onesie to celebrate that special "It's a Boy!" moment or a pair of dainty socks as a pick me up, it's certainly a less expensive alternative to wine. Plus, the fuzzy headache usually only accompanies overindulgence of the pocketbook.

On the flip side, and as an added bonus, you, as dear old Mom and Dad, have the right to take as many embarrassing pictures of those not so flattering outfits as you like. Whether you save them for a rainy day or a rebellious teen, they'll surely come in handy. Who said playing dress-up never served a purpose?

Infants and Parolees: Not So Different, After All

During their first year of life, babies are a lot like newly released prison inmates. After spending nine months in isolation, they need some time to adjust to life on the outside. And like their criminal counterparts, they've used their time getting fit.

Amniotic aerobics must really work those core muscles, because all babies are blessed with superhuman strength. Sure, it tapers off as they get older, but once the shock of birth has worn off, for a short time, they remember their training on the inside.

Some infants are boxers. Those tiny jabs to the kidneys during the third trimester suddenly make sense. With no room for an actual punching bag, your kid is nothing if not resourceful. Now free to roam the carpeted and baby-proofed world, you can't figure out why he insists on punching you in the gut when you go in for a hug.

Others prefer kickboxing. Your bladder knew which type of parolee you'd have long before she was born. Your boobs had an inkling as they withstood blow after blow of roundhouse kicks during nursing. Even your husband couldn't help but notice the bruises developing during "play time".

Luckily, your bruised and battered body has enough wear left to survive. The really interesting part is watching your sweetie harness and embrace his developing powers. Witnessing a rubber ducky as it's hurled through space and time warrants more than a "What an arm" remark.

Likewise, when your little angel realizes she can single-footedly prevent you from attaching the tray to her high chair, it's a proud day. With so much leg strength, your measly arms just don't measure up to the one-two combination of kicks knocking that tray off the tracks.

So the question is, how do you suffer injury and delay of meals with a straight face? How do you find that medium between keeping your sense of humor while showing your baby who's boss? After all, you don't want to risk becoming the "bad parent" so many people have warned you about. The answer? Here it is. Wait for it. Oh, it's coming.

All new parents are asking that same question. Seasoned parents will be happy to tell you as soon as they get the kids to bed, wash the dishes, fold the laundry... what was the question again?

The truth is, there is no magical medium. Sometimes all you can do is close your eyes and count to ten. It's just a perk that trying to stifle your laughter looks remarkably like controlling your temper. (The kids don't need to know that secret until they have children of their own.) Besides, you have his entire childhood to raise him properly, while her super strength will only last a little while.

BabyBjorn Baby Carrier Original Review

BabyBjorn Baby Carrier Original

What parent doesn't want a hands-free way to tote their tot? The BabyBjorn Baby Carrier Original is a great world- and mom-facing carrier designed to assist in hefting your new bundle around, while also leaving your arms available for those push ups you're trying to cram in. It also provides support for bobble-headed newborns who still lack the neck strength to hold their noggins on their own.


Photo by babybjorn.com

For brand new babies, it's designed for cradling against mommy's chest in an effort to promote bonding. Older tykes enjoy a broader perspective when turned outward in full view of the world. While the mom-facing design is theoretically great for eye contact and closeness, my daughter wasn't a fan of being forced to gaze at my mug. I couldn't coax her into hanging out in this carrier so long as I was the view.

Photo by babybjorn.com

For other moms who might experience this snag, don't give up. Once she was old enough to hold her head up, she absolutely loved seeing the world from the arms-waving-feet-dangling perspective offered by the Baby Bjorn.

It's easy to use and the adjustable straps grow with your child. The price can range between $60-$80 and it makes a great registry item. Even though I wasn't able to use it for the first several months, I'd recommend it as an example of delayed gratification.

Dear Expectant Mom

Dear Expectant Mom: 

You're beautiful. You're not fat; you're making room for one more. You're tired, achy, and irritable because you have a tiny person kicking you all day. On the other hand, you have a tiny person kicking you all day. You pee every ten minutes and you can't climb off the couch without help. Even though you've never slept on your belly or back, those are suddenly the only positions that seem comfortable; and, of course, you can't do that (can you say, "Don't push the red button"?). It sometimes takes an hour before you fall asleep and when you do, you have dreams of dropping the baby. You worry about money and whether you'll be a good enough mom and whether you're gaining too much/not enough weight. Strangers want to rub your stomach and that's the last thing you want to think about since you can't keep any food in it. You have to sleep in a sports bra and you can't even remember the last time you wore cute underwear. Breathe.

You're amazing. What you're doing is remarkable. You're sacrificing so much already for the sake of someone you haven't even seen. Pregnancy isn't just a phase you have to pass through before having a child. It's an involved route on your journey into parenthood. Pregnancy prepares you for the sacrifices, inconveniences, and difficult times ahead. But it also readies you for the wonderful changes that are coming. You don't expect motherhood to be easy, so how could carrying a child be any different?

You're deserving of all good things. You're having nightmares of being an inadequate parent because you care so much about being enough for your child. Good enough. Patient enough. Smart enough. Strong enough. You will be. Motherhood has a learning curve; don't worry. Every mother who ever came before you had the same fears and anxieties. You're doing a great job as a mom already - you're taking your vitamins; you're talking to your baby (even if others think you're crazy); and you're loving your unborn child.

You're strong. Waddling around all day isn't easy. Your hormones are racing in every direction and your husband is afraid to stand too close sometimes. That's okay. He knows you're strong, too (that's why he's hiding the frying pans and baseball bats for the next nine months).

You're going to be a great mom. It's okay to plop down on the couch because you're tired. It's okay to cry because that Chevy commercial was so touching. It's okay to scream into your pillow because you're feeling overwhelmed. It's okay to eat mac 'n cheese every night for a month because it's the only thing that doesn't make you puke. It's okay. Whatever you have to do to cope with stress/worries/fears is okay. 

You're beautiful, amazing, deserving, and strong. Your baby may not be here just yet, but you are already a great mom. And that little stowaway already loves you more than you know.

She Did Just Spit Up, Right?

Babies are a lot like magicians. They begin honing their skills in the hospital with those first attempts at breaking free of the swaddle. Once home, they grow and evolve until even the Velcro blankets (specifically designed to thwart the efforts of tiny escapees) can no longer contain them. It's amazing the first time you see that tiny foot shoot through a hole that wasn't there a minute ago.

Another fun newborn trick is projectile vomiting. For any first-time parent, the sight of that milky gush is terrifying. It's so much. But when she fires a line-drive to Uncle Al from across the room and immediately giggles, she's letting you know not to worry. (Still, it's always best to mention it to the pediatrician just to be safe.)

Her heat-seeking missiles and an impressive ability to wriggle free of a burrito hold are just the beginning. As she gets older, the real trick - the one that keeps you scratching your head long into the night - is the disappearing spit up.

I'm not talking about the ever so graceful slurp of the dangling loogie. I'm talking about the ooze that spews from her mouth and miraculously disappears within seconds. Sure, you found some of it; after all, it landed in your hand (great catch, by the way). You may have even spotted a drop of leftover dribble on her chin, but there are at least two ounces missing. Gone. Vanished.

My theory? I'm convinced babies find worm holes in which to dispose of pesky upchuck. Maybe they use those passageways to another dimension to help us out. Perhaps they see us cleaning up after them all day and think, "Hey. I've got this, Mom." Maybe they do it just to be funny - fodder for the sandbox.

Whatever the reason, the fact remains: she spit up in the kitchen and you found a tiny pool in the living room. You wiped her mouth and searched the area, but none of it landed on her. So how did it pool underneath your butt? You weren't even holding her. Are the alternate universe babies rejecting it? Or maybe they're communicating through a sophisticated code of regurgitated carrots. Did it really just disappear into the abyss of the couch? Or is it traveling through time only to meet you at your ninetieth birthday party?

Regardless of how or why it disappears, only your baby knows the secret. All you can do is wipe up the puddles that surface and wear a catcher's mitt to your next few birthday bashes.