My full-time, built in, 24/7, co-parent and (almost) husband: There is absolutely no way I could have survived my first year of mommy-hood without this man. He's picked up the pieces that I've missed along the way, as well as add in his own pieces that I never would have thought of myself. That's why we're such a good team, were always picking each other up, helping the other one out, and forever putting the 'team' in teamwork.
Evenflo Dual Electric Breastpump: I've talked about this item before in my Ultimate Guide To Breastfeeding Blog and I can't stress enough how much of a life-saver this was. Especially since I am an exclusive pumper, I've been attached to this every few hours or so for the past year. Along with this I also should add in Lansinoh milk bags, Evenflo milk storage bottles, and Dr. Brown bottles; all of which contributed nothing but good things to my exclusive pumping journey.
Baby's First Year Calendar: Just take a few minutes to jot down the important stuff and I'm on my way. I now have every milestone hit and every developing personality written down forever.
Outlet Covers: And a lot of them! Baby fingers may be chubby, but they are tiny! And they can fit into places that our fingers haven't been able to fit in years. Protection is key and baby proofing is a must! At least it is for our curious baby.
Camera!: For obvious reasons. My name is Matraca, and I am a picture-holic.
Shopping Cart Cover: Because I'm a germ freak, it's cute, and it kept our Mason comfy cozy & entertained during our long grocery shopping ventures.
Diaper Genie: Honestly, if we never would have gotten this little piece of heaven from our baby shower, I really don't think we would have it. I've heard awful reviews on them and some people down right hate them. But we don't see how people have pleasant nursery's without them!
Jumperoo: This was huge! Not because we dislike carrying or holding our baby, but because sometimes the dishes need to get done and the laundry needs folding. This was a great place to place our bambino while we tended to some household chores. He loved it so much he hated to be taken out of it!
DIAPER STOCKPILE: You know those horror stories you hear of the wife calling the husband on his way home from work asking him to pick up a pack of last minute diapers? Well that never happened for us. Why? Because ever since we found out we were pregnant we started buying a box of diapers a month. Yes, it adds up and takes up a bit of space, but holy moly it was worth it. No late night diaper runs, no stress and a peace of mind.
Baby Bullet: Yes, I am one of those moms who would much rather make her baby food than buy Gerber. I love my baby bullet and can't wait to start trying out my recipes that I have saved for his next stage of food. Pasta and chicken salads here we come! You can read all about our baby bullet experience and 'how to's' by clicking here and here.
Our Never-Failing Support System: Whether it be family or friends, church family or daycare, new or old; we love you all and are so thankful for everything you've done for us. To list all of you would be a list that was miles long, but you know who you are and... thank you.
Nursery Glider/ Rocker: Forever making breast feeding positions and story time a little bit easier.
Umbrella Stroller: Of course we have the nice, heavy-duty stroller but who wants to whip out one of those when you just need to go on a Starbucks run? Umbrella strollers weigh a million pounds less, the set up time is reduced and they're oh so convenient.
Mozart Lullaby CD: Call me crazy, but this thing works miracles on our long car rides. Crying baby? Pop in his Mozart lullaby CD and he's out like a light. I swear by this disk! See what I'm talking about and look at shopping opportunities HERE!
Receiving Blankets: You know those thing but wide spread blankets you can buy in bulk? They also wrap your baby in one the very first time you hold him/ her. Well, let me be the first to say, those make wonderful burp rags. We had so many of the brand name 'burp rags' but those things barely covered my shoulder! One little burp and it was in the wash it went. Receiving blankets on the other hand: last way longer, cover a multitude of areas the other burp rags never even dreamed about, and washed out like champs. I will never buy a regular 'burp rag' again.
Baby Carrier: There's about 20 million different kinds out there and we own three. The sling, baby backpack and "Ellaroo". Mason absolutely hated his baby backpack but he really loved the other two! Were just a baby wearin' family and wherever we are you can rest assured Mason is nearby.
My 2015 Daily Planner: I honestly don't know how people survive without one of these things. Every doctor appointment, work schedule, homework assignment, errand, class time, grocery list, wedding and first birthday party planning detail is in this thing. It's my bible to get me through the day and I would lose my head without it.
Well there ya have it! Along with the obvious essentials like wipes, baby shampoo, toys and medicine, this is my list of things that I'm not sure how some people do without on their first year of parenting. I'm sure I missed some and some people won't agree with some of the items on this list, but remember; everybody's first parenting experience is different!
Have something that YOU can't live without for your little one? Or even for yourself in order to survive the daily hectic-ness of parenting?! I want to know! E-mail me at dresses.to.messes@gmail.com. or follow the Blog's Facebook page and message me there at www.facebook.com/DressesToMesses. As always, like, share, comment, post, this blog because the more feedback I receive, the happier I am. :) I'm lovin' this mama circle (and just friends in general) that I am gaining from this lovely blogging community.
No comments:
Post a Comment