I figured I'd do things a little different. As a mother, you never really know what you need until you need it. I remember being pregnant with Gabe and thinking that I needed all of these things and he had to have the best of the best of everything! But now, it's the essentials that I've found we can't live without. The things that every Momma needs to keep things in line. :) Here's my list of must haves (Part 1) {Because I'm positive I can't list everything at once! haha}
- Diaper Bag. Duh! Everyone has their own preferences for what type of bag they use as their diaper bag. I LOVE 31 bags- the organizing utility tote and the Cindy Tote. When I had Gabe, we used the organizing utility tote and my Mom had his name put on it. It had 2 side compartments and 5 other pockets... which made it perfect for storing all those things like bottles, ointments, water, etc. I began selling 31 at the beginning of the year and my first purchase was the Cindy Tote and another OUT (organizing utility tote) for Lincoln. I love the Cindy Tote because it's bigger and it zips. It has several compartments inside and 2 on the sides. Though, I have found that at times I need something bigger... but this does the job. I use the OUT's for each boy when they're going for a stay at Mama's or when I take just one of them. I also use the OUT's as extra bags to take toys, snacks, etc with us on car rides.
- Insulated bag. I find these especially handy when breastfeeding. Just pop your milk in them with a freezer bag and you're set. :) I found a couple really cute insulated bags from Goodwill that are perfect for us! My friend, Giovanna, also gave us one when we had Gabe that I love to use... as well as the ones you get for free from the hospital when they send you home. All are convenient.
- Diaper Genie. With 2 boys... we wouldn't survive without a diaper genie. Just remember to tie the bag before using it.. I've forgotten several times- Jess wasn't too happy when he went to take it out! haha.
- Rock - N- Play Sleeper. I don't know what we would have done without this! This sleeper was the only thing that Lincoln would sleep in until just a few nights ago. (He's sleeping in his crib now... finger's crossed). With Gabe, the transition from his bassinet to crib was easy. He was used to sleeping in those because of being in the hospital for so long. I may have slacked a little with Lincoln on the transitioning... we're getting there!
- Exersaucer. Hours of fun. End. Of. Story.
- Sophie the Giraffe. I didn't know about Sophie until Lincoln. I wish I had known about her when Gabe was teething... she's been a lifesaver. Lincoln just loves to play and chew on Sophie. I must admit though, Gabe does like to sneak her away from Lincoln and play with her too.
- Aden and Anais Swaddle Blankets. My sister in law, Kara, got these for her baby shower and I fell in love with their softness and how big they were. I finally cracked down and got them with a gift card that we had. I'm so happy I did. They've turned out to be the best lightweight blankets for the boys... they both love them. Plus, I don't have to worry about Lincoln covering his face with them since they're breathable...he thinks it's funny to pull his blanket over his face. Mommy and Daddy aren't amused. However, we are planning on getting the Dream Blankets soon. I hear great things about them and I think they'll be perfect for the boys to sleep with- especially Gabe.
- Soft, fluffy blankets. I love the big, soft blankets for laying the boys down on the floor with them. Gabriel also loves to cuddle up with his soft blankies during nap and bedtime.
- Boppy Pillow. Must have for all breastfeeding moms. But they're also great for laying Lincoln in as well.
- Water Bottle. Every Mom needs a nice water bottle to keep her hydrated and going throughout the day. Especially breastfeeding momma's! :)
