To Trend or Not to Trend?

I am definitely not one to go out and buy the newest, most expensive baby items just because they're the "hip" things to have.  Don't get me wrong, I have certain "cravings" for items that are a bit out of reach from my pocketbook, and could make countless trips to Pottery Barn Kids, Land of Nod, Buy Buy Baby if I had a bottomless bank account....BUT, let's just say, I try to make smart purchases and splurge only occasionally. :)  I wanted to highlight a few items that I think are worth tipping the scales a little bit or following the trend, whether for convenience or safety.  I'll tell you why:

1. BOB Revolution Stroller

This stroller is definitely pricey, but beyond worth it.  It's extremely light-weight, maneuvers easily, and maintains a smooth ride, even on bumpy brick sidewalks like we have here in Old Town!  I have pushed many other strollers, including jogging strollers, and the BOB is 100% worth the price.  There are also plenty of accessories that are available for the stroller, too, including a weather shield, infant seat adapter, snack tray, and more!  I babysit a baby girl, and with her in the stroller, Kellyn in the baby carrier, and my dog on the leash, I have often been thankful for how easy the BOB is to move around.  One-handed much?

2. ERGO Baby Carrier

Starved Rock State Park

Ok, this item really isn't that expensive, compared to most other baby carriers.  Unless you really feel the need to go all-organic, the Original ERGO Baby Carrier is definitely satisfactory.  I wanted to mention this item, though, because I have numerous baby carriers (Baby Bjorn, Seven Sling) and this is my fave for sure.  It's got a hood attached to use for cold weather or a sun shield, as well as a nice-sized pocked on the outside for storing a diaper, wipes, snacks, keys, cell phone..(yes, I store all of those things in there at once.)  The most important aspect to this carrier though, is how easy it is on the back.  We tend to walk long distances while using the carrier, whether it be hiking, sightseeing, or shopping, and by the end, my back still feels ok.  The support is on all the right places.  If you plan on using it for your baby before 4 months, you'll need the infant insert.  It's awesome as well, and I'll include an additional picture of us using the insert:

Savannah, GA

3. phil & ted's metoo high chair

This is such a great high chair, which has completely eliminated the challenge of adding one more bulky baby item into our small space.  This seat is sturdy, easy to hook onto a table or countertop, and can be folded down flat to take out with you.  My favorite thing about it is having Kellyn right there at the table with us.  It's so fun to have family dinners together!

4. Britax Marathon 70 Convertible Car Seat 

This one has a high price-tag.  You can definitely purchase a cheaper car seat, but car safety is a big thing for me.  This is a rear-facing and forward-facing seat that can last until your child is 70 pounds.  The reclining feature is great, as well as the safety features such as the 5 point harness, Safecell technology that lowers the center of gravity in the event of a crash, and the Side Impact Protection.  Kellyn loves this seat, since he is able to be up and see out of the window more easily.  I'm glad we decided to move him into the convertible seat when we did!  

These are my top picks for now! Thanks for reading!

My Top 3 Breastfeeding Must-Haves!

Kellyn takes a quick break from nursing..Chicago, IL:

I have a few things to say about my experience with breastfeeding.  First off, I'm not gonna lie, it is the hardest thing I have ever done.  Seriously, delivering a 7+ pound baby was definitely work, but at least it was over-with in less than 24 hours.  With my little stinker, breastfeeding did not come very easy, and we had some serious latching problems for quite some time.  When you've got a baby attached to your sore boobs, oh let's say, TWELVE times a day, time drags.  But wait, wait, before I scare off any moms-to-be, let me say this: it is THE BEST thing I have done for my baby.  The bonding is exactly what every mom raves about, and nothing compares to it.  Kellyn has also been one of the healthiest babies around, for which breastfeeding deserves most of the credit, in my opinion.  Now, in the shadow of my recent struggle experience with my baby boy deciding to wean himself, I thought I would share my top three faves in the breastfeeding world!

1: GLAMOURMOM Nursing Bra Tank www.glamourmom.com

This was a GREAT gift from my Aunt Martie, my constant go-to person throughout my breastfeeding journey! I have multiple colors, and have pretty much worn one every single day since Kellyn was born.  This specific style has a very easy clasp for working one-handed.  Definitely a must-have for quick, easy, and discrete access for your baby's feedings!

2: Simply Lily Lily Padz Silicone Nursing Pads www.simplylily.com

I have never worn a pair of disposable nursing pads, but have heard many complaints from friends who have, regarding how gross they get when they are full.  These worked wonders for me, and pretty much prevented all leakage.  Two sets of these lasted my entire 9 months of nursing!

3: Hooter Hider Nursing Cover www.bebeaulait.com

If you plan on ever nursing in public, which I did constantly, this will be a staple item for you.  The adjustable straps stay in place perfectly for your unique fit.  The rigid neckline allows for great ventilation and eye contact with your baby while nursing.  The style I have features small pockets on each corner that come in handy to store a nursing pad or pacifier while your baby is eating.  I have nursed Kellyn in every public place imaginable, including Disneyland, downtown Chicago, Central Park in NYC, Dodger Stadium, etc. etc. etc. all using my stylish Hooter Hider.  I could NOT have done without it!

Acheiving Ambitions in the New Year

So, it has been my desire to start my own mommy blog since the day my precious boy was born.  Sure, there are plenty out there, but who knows-maybe someone will find my experiences helpful/interesting/boring?  Either way, I am at fresh place in my life that has freed up my evenings, and I am determined to start 2011 by accomplishing some goals that I have been meaning to get around to.  Mommyhood can be a little overwhelming, from the pregnancy pains, morning sickness, labor & delivery, and alllll of the other scary amazing things that come after, so I hope that I might answer a few of the questions that I had when I began this new life, or at least provide some entertainment!