With Baby #2 expected less than four months from now, I’m making my list and checking it twice when it comes to newborn essentials…
Since this isn’t our first rodeo, we have most of the basics we will need to welcome our girl this spring. BUT, there are a few “bonus” items I’d love to get for Christmas (or any other time) for this time around…
Britax B-Agile and B-Safe Travel System
My Graco carseat and snap and go stroller was probably my least loved item out of everything I had when Sam was a baby. While it was perfectly functional, I feel like I just didn’t know about all the great options out there when it comes to these things… From the very beginning (much to Jeff’s dismay), the travel system was the one thing I said I definitely wanted to replace when it came time for Baby #2. I’ve done a good bit of research so far, and the Britax models seem to be a great compromise when it comes to price, safety, and style… We have a Britax carseat for Sam now and have liked it a lot. I also love that this stroller has a more sleek look to it, and the practicality of it being a useful stroller even after the baby outgrows the carrier portion as well. While we will still probably use the Graco carrier when in Jeff (or a grandparent)’s car, I’ve got my heart set on this one for every day use.
Pottery Barn Gray Classic Diaper Bag
Our first diaper bag was very simple and very “gender neutral.” We went with a green messenger bag style by SkipHop because I wanted it to be something Jeff felt comfortable carrying too. While I have no regrets about that bag, I did realize that Jeff honestly didn’t use it that often and since we already have that one for such an occasion, a baby GIRL seems like the perfect opportunity to choose something that fits my style and personality a bit more. I’ve literally been eyeing this one from Pottery Barn for YEARS now. What exactly are the “rules” for this kind of thing… Should I monogram it with my initials or the baby’s?
Sam was never really a huge fan of the carrier; but, he was a big fan of being carried; and I’m fully prepared that that will be even more difficult now that I have a wild preschooler to keep up with too! This wrap has received rave reviews from my real-life friends and bloggers alike, so I’m definitely going to consider it moving forward. I also like that it can fold up and fit in a diaper bag (which it would match, btw) unlike a Bjorn or Ergo. Plus, stripes are a total bonus – I can’t get enough!
Fisher Price Rock & Play Sleeper
All my friends that have had babies in the last three years or so have SWORN by this thing. Many of their babies slept in them for their first few months instead of a bassinet, and everyone raved about them for napping etc. during the day. When Sam was born, we had a pack & play and a swing set up in our living room; but, honestly, they weren’t used that much and they took up a lot of space. Now that we are already overrun by toys etc., I love the idea of this being small and portable for naps or just a safe place to sit when Mommy needs a minute.
I vividly remember going to the store when Sam was an infant and buying one of each type of bottle they had in hopes that something, anything, would help his little tummy and make him less fussy. We found some good ones; but, this time around I want to be a little pickier about chemicals in plastic and the quality of things like bottles. This isn’t a need, but definitely a bonus.
MORE Aden + Anais
I LOVED Aden + Anais with Sam. The blankets were so soft and perfect for my little summer baby. Plus, I loved all the fun patterns and colors. We have a lot we can re-use with this little one; BUT, in the last almost four years the company has also released a ton of new items that I’d love to have, like the easy swaddles, crib sheets, changing pad covers, sleep sacks, etc. When it comes to this stuff, my philosophy is “the more the merrier.” (P.S. My favorite print is this one with gold stars… So simple and sweet.)
Ok, now, I NEED YOUR HELP: Moms of two (or more), what am I forgetting? What were you must have items? Am I crazy for not getting a double stroller (Sam will be almost 4 when this baby is born)? Did you have a shower for your second baby?
Thanks friends!
E