It's a ....

In Case I Lose Power....

I will be upset for 2 reasons:

1st reason: My sonogram (which will reveal the gender of baby) is tomorrow at 8:40am

2nd reason: 2 kids + pregnant lady + no milk/tv/lights/AIR = a very unhappy household

Brett has his emergency plan figured out.

And just for those who can't get enough of it (ahem, me)

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And YES we have toilets and wear shoes!!! GAH

Melissa

18 Weeks and a Hurricane

Hurricane Issac pre-landfall



Hahahaha
And just think I am adding 1 more in January. Fun Times Ahead!


So on a more serious note, Hurricane Issac will make landfall anywhere between New Orleans and Destin. Oh and news to Jim Cantore, that "land mass" to the east of Louisana is MISSISSIPPI. Gah!

Ok so we prayed at church for safety for all of those living on the coast.
Psalm 91 is a perfect chapter to pray over your household. btw




Retail Therapy Via Ebay strikes again!


I ordered 2 more necklaces off of Ebay.

*Yes I ordered another color* :0)

I obviously favor greens and blues if you can't tell. haha





Baby Update



My belly is becoming more of a problem at work.




Is it just me or did I just suddenly pop out there!??!


18 weeks

How far along: 18 weeks! 

Baby Size:  Bell Pepper (5 1/2+ inches long!!) 

Maternity clothes: Yes and No still 

Sleep: I had amazing naps this weekend  

Anything that makes you queasy or sick: Swallowing pills & coughing, weird I know! 

Best moment of the week: Snuggling with Brett 

 Movement: Yep , but still too light for Jordan to feel 

Food Cravings: Sushi and Odwalla Superfood drinks 

 (no not mixed together! I promise I am the only pregnant lady that

 doesn't have weird cravings) 

Gender: Hello Wednesday!

 Symptoms: Bending over is becoming a lot harder now

 Mood: Tired if I don't have my Spark and grumpy if I don't eat

 Looking forward to: Wednesday!

Much Love

Melissa

My Friday just got better!!

My Target boots came in!! Yippee!!
I'm currently wearing them around the house to let them conform to my calf. Apparently ex-dancers' calves are larger than the average bear.

17 weeks and a Weekend Recap

Friday

Well we had a nasty storm blow threw last early Friday morning,

and this is what ended up in bed with us...

aren't they so sweet when they are sleeping?? :0)

On Friday I bought these Target boots online, hopefully I will get them this week!!

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I also scored these cowboy boots at Stein Mart, Yay

I am apparently preparing for Fall haha

Saturday

It was storming outside, so I did 100 30 loads of laundry.

The kids however were trying to compete with nature's fury (tornado) and see who could

destroy the house faster.

Sunday

Church/ Lunch with Jordan's Parents/Family nap/Hunger Games (kids were asleep)

Monday

17 weeks!!

my view and everyone else's view

How far along: 17 weeks!

Baby Size:  Weight of a Turnip (5oz) but is 5 in. long! (Your hand spread out = length) 

Maternity clothes: Yes and No still

Sleep: I dreamt that I had my sono and it was a girl but since no one believed me

I had another one done up here at work, weird.

Anything that makes you queasy or sick: Swallowing pills and baby poo poo!

Best moment of the week: knowing I have 8 1/2 days till my sono!

 Movement: Yep, in the afternoon & night

Food Cravings: Soups and Sushi (No not mixed together!)

Gender: T-minus 8 1/2 days

Symptoms: Headaches, but they have dissipated for now, Thank you Lord

Mood: A little depressed :0(

Looking forward to: Buying the new baby's lovie

 

 

 

Happy Monday Peeps!

 

Melissa

 

 

 

Top Baby Products Part 2

Continuing the series:

11.

Boppy

The Boppy
I used it alot and loved it. The only thing is sometimes I had to prop a pillow under the side I was breastfeeding on for a little more support (only when the baby is small). When Jordan fed the babies he didn't have to use extra pillows. Get The Boppy with 1-2 extra slipcovers. I have the exact one above.
I did try the competitor (see below) My Brest Friend but here are my dislikes about it: It's about $20 more, it wraps around your whole body and velcros , it startles the baby by trying to remove it (via 12 inch velcro strip), and honestly I hate that it wraps around my back. However the one thing it did do was prop up the baby better. But I would rather just use an extra pillow and the Boppy and have the ability to slide it away with ease. Just my opinion, yo. Me + Velcro = Ugly Death Match





12.

Breastfeeding Products




Lansinoh Disposable Nursing Pads
I tried a few brands but I loved these the best. Oh and they are cheaper at Target too :0)
I am a big time supporter of breastfeeding, so if you have any questions I would be happy to help.



Medela Pump In Style
This is the best pump to buy, it runs around $250-270 but ends up being worth it and will last you several kids. Go ahead and get these extra and larger storage bottles for when your supply is greater.

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If you want to rent a pump I suggest checking out your local Breastfeeding clinic.
Here is the one I used Mississippi Breastfeeding Clinic.
They are wonderful! If you are having any trouble or have any questions they will help you!
You can buy replacement pieces/parts for your pump there as well.
*Renting from the Hospital is more expensive I think*



Medela Pump & Save Bags
You can get these if you get the Medela Pump, then you can just pump right into bags (more efficient). But I actually pumped into the storage bottles that it came with it and then poured the milk into some
 Lansinoh Bags. (Because they are cheaper, but it might be better in the long run to get the matching bags)




13.

Carseats




Baby Trend Flex Loc Carseat
This is almost identical to the one we bought in 2008. We loved the triangle handle and it was very easy to operate and clean. The newer versions carry up to 30lbs 30inches (which is really good btw). When looking for a an infant carseat there a few things to think about bc there are ALOT of options now.
1. Infant carseat or convertible carseat??
With an infant carseat you can easily move the child without unbuckling/waking them up. Just pull the handle forward and release the seat from the base and off you go = Easy
Convertible carseats are not able to do this, you have to strap/unstrap the child every time.
So if they are sleeping, good luck!
2. Do pounds & inches really matter??
Yes! Look for a carseat that will accommodate a taller child. See The Baby Trend Carseat above now seats children up to 30lbs/30in, which is fantastic! The one I had (and sold) only went up to 22lbs/20in so they both outgrew them right before the year mark. From my understanding babies tend to hit the length mark faster than the weight mark. So all in all the higher the weight & length the carseat allows the better. The Graco Snugride 35 accommodates up to 35lbs/32in < really good :0)
With a convertible carseat they accommodate children up to like 100 pounds, hence the convertible carseat :0)
3. What brand is best?
Well usually all carseats are now required to have a 5 point harness, EPS energy-absorbing foam for superior impact protection, Head support (which I use something different when they are itty bitty), and a Latch system.

Top 3 Brands (Infant Carseats)
(like I know people who have them and love them)
Britax > Rated the top every time but is pricey
Graco> Has great ratings especially for the Snugride & Snugride 35
Baby Trend > I've used it you know I like it

Top 3 Brands (Convertible Carseats)
Britax Marathon 70 > Once again- rated #1 but is pricey $$$/bulky
Graco My Ride 65 > Rated #2 mid- range $$-$$$ /bulky
Cosco Scenera > It is less $$ but I think it is just as good but not as bulky :0)

So in the end this is what I did:
Mallie: infant carseat until age 1, then convertible carseat, now a Cosco Booster seat
*Loved, Hated (too bulky/wobbly), Love*
Brett: infant carseat until age 1, now Cosco Booster seat
*Loved, Love*

I went straight to the Cosco Booster seat bc it allows for children who are 1 year and 22lbs to forward face. Bingo! So Brett went straight from his infant carseat to the high back booster seat.

Now with all of this hooplah about you can't forward face until 2 years old has me confused. :0/
I will most likely still buy an infant carseat for this one to start in.




14.

Strollers

Snap N Go

This is ideal if: This is your first child and you have the Baby Trend Carseat. (There are also universal ones that can supposedly attach to any brand) This thing is awesome, you just take the infant carseat out of the car and it snaps right on there. It's lightweight, slender, manuvers easliy, great bottom storage, 2 cup holders, and a small covered compartment. We loved this thing, but unfortunantly with having 3 kids I am going to need a double stroller.

If I buy another Baby Trend Carseat then I will probably get one of the Double Strollers that will allow me to attach it to it.

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However not everyone needs a Double Stroller like me so this is what I did with both kids:

Carseat attached to Snap N Go Frame, and had a lightweight stroller.

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Similar to this, something that wasn't bulky like these. It was nice just having a lightweight stroller.

The only thing I wish it did have was a cup holder, but I think you can buy cup holder attachments for strollers. I have heard the bulky strollers are a pain as well.

Also one thing to look for in a stroller is a reclining feature, If you want to put an infant in a stroller then you need it. And also when the kids pass out you can recline it back so they sleep better too.

If you have a tall husband like me, best to take them to the store and try out the strollers with you.

 Jordan complained the handles were too low on the lightweight stroller.  :0/

15.

Baby Carriers

To Wrap or To Strap

That is the question

I had the evil strap on kind, I registered for it and used it twice and hated it. Thankfully I only registered for the $30 one. It hurt my shoulders so bad :0(

I have heard that the ERGObaby one is good but I just can't see how the straps are any different

and it's pricey. ($100 and up)

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So now I am leaning towards The Moby Wrap

I have heard from several mommies that it's comfortable and the babies love it.

*It's around $30! Score!*

16.

Jumperoo

Fisher-Price Rainforest Jumperoo

L.O.V.E. this. Buy it! you will not be sorry!

17.

Swing

Graco Swing

We were fortunate to have my cousin lend us her Graco Swing. Which I loved and both babies loved. I wouldn't spend over $100 on one though and just get a basic one that swings normal.

The one's that do weird swinging motions aren't worth the extra money.

So like this one above has good features that I used repeatedly : music, vibrating seat, mobile and speed options. If you search online you can usually find swings for better prices than Babies R Us.

However Babies R Us can sometimes give/send you 20% off coupons.

If you have a swing you really don't need a Bouncer.

Unless someone just give you one or you get one for cheap, I didn't use mine.

18.

Bassinet

Bassinet

This is what both kids slept in next to my bed for several months. Since I was breastfeeding, Brett would wake up in the night and I would just lean over pick him up, feed him, swaddle and put him back.

Easy Peasy, I mean am I the only one who hates getting up in the middle of the night?

Why not make it as simple as possible, right?! My feet didn't even have to touch the floor, my bootsies were warm and cozy. :0) I liked having the little vibrate & light option on mine (I used it alot obviously)

The one pictured above is $69, which is really good. I would suggest something simple like this one.

19.

Bathtubs

Puj Tub

My friend loved the Puj Tub (when they are still small) but at $44 to which they outgrow fairly quickly, I dunno if I am willing to invest in that.

I have had many woes with bathtubs:

Foldaway Tub > Loathed

Bath Sling > ok until they can roll over

Newborn to Toddler Tub > Not crazy about it

I have heard the Whale of a Tub is a mom favorite and at least it grows with them.

20.

Diapers

Pampers Swaddlers

Perfect for the first few weeks. I love the wetness indicator for in the beginning. Then just go to the regular Pampers. I wouldn't buy too many Newborn sizes, babies are in Size 1 and 2 alot longer. Mallie only wore Pampers and they fit her great.

*Pampers are cheaper at Walmart usually*

Luvs Diapers

Best Diaper for Best Price. These are the only diapers Brett wears and I love them.

 He hasn't leaked at all from these.

*Best price for Luvs is at Target*

21.

Mobile

Fisher Price Rainforest Mobile

Best purchase ever! Love this thing! Buy it now!

Ok so I hoped you enjoyed Part 2 of Top Baby Products

Hopefully this information has helped some new moms/moms to be or grandmas.

Happy Friday!

Melissa

Top Baby Products

First- I am doing much better today, thanks for the well wishes :0)

Ok since this is baby #3 for me, these are top things that have been my life saver.

Don't worry people I am an expert here. ;0)

Top Baby Essentials

1.

This Glow Seahorse is amazing and a lifesaver! I have like 3 floating around the house. When both Mallie & Brett were born I would feed them right before 8:00pm and then swaddle, stick them in their bassinet/crib,  turn this sucker on and off to sleep they went. But seriously people, it helped them both recognize that once I turned this on it was bedtime. Totally worth it to buy two.

2.

These swaddle blankets are amazing! I love them and yes they are pricey $30ish bucks

but worth every penny. I will be buying another pack soon. I suggest 2 packs if you are a firm believer in swaddling, which I think everyone should be. Jesus was swaddled and He saved the world.....

 I'm just saying people.... swaddling is awesome!!

 If you don't know how, I will happy to come over and show you :0) or just watch

this DVD. Which is actually one of my top products I recommend anyways.

3.

The infamous Pack 'n Play. is worth every penny I'm telling you. I personally didn't use the detachable changing station thing, bc there is already an open space when it's raised. We still use it sometimes, and it is actually getting worn out from the abuse amount of use we have put into it from the past 2 kids.

4.

These Gerber cloth diapers make THE BEST burp cloths E.V.E.R. You can get them monogrammed and I actually applied a ribbon trim to them (which is adorable btw). Get like 2-3 packs and you wont be sorry.

5.

MAM Pacifiers 

I have used these with both kids and have loved them. Not only are they adorable but some glow (great for finding in the dark with a screaming baby) and are highly recommend by doctors. I have heard that the Nuk pacifiers can cause teeth problems, etc. and these do not. I am not a fan of the clip that comes with them, instead I just ordered a few clips from Etsy.com. So cute!

*just make sure they have the little ribbon loop at the end and it will work for the MAM Pacifiers*

6.

Bottles

 First choice

Tommee Tippee bottles are awesome. Brett didn't have any gas issues with them and they are made for breastfeeding babies. (Great for transitioning back and forth) I highly recommend these.

Second choice

 

If you can find the MAM Bottles then they are a great 2nd choice. I used them with Mallie and loved them. Just make sure the bottom pieces of the bottle are positioned/screwed on correctly and it works great. Mallie didn't have any gas issues with these either.

7.

Medela Quick Clean Micro-Steam Bags

These are amazing when you need clean anything in a flash :0)



8.

Circo Sleep N' Play 
 Zippered kind ONLY are the best, snaps are ridiculous and whoever thought of putting 100 snaps on a baby's outfit apparently didn't have any kids. Get tons of these, seriously... I love them. Especially for the middle of the night diaper changes. I prefer Circo brand (Target) but I think Gerber (Walmart)
has some too.

Circo is so soft :0)


9.

Nursing Covers
I bought mine off of Etsy and it was awesome.
 I picked out my fabric and it ended up being cheaper than the ones in the store.



10.



Custom Diaper Bags on Etsy

I remember searching forever for diaper bags, and I didn't like any of the ones I found in boutiques/stores. So I looked on Etsy and low and behold, you can get diapers bags custom made to your specifications and your fabric choice for the same price of the fancy schmancy ones in the stores.


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This is the one I ordered for Brett and customized
(added a zipper close and changed the lining to a black & white hounds tooth instead).




I get so many compliments on it :0) oh and I love that the inside is laminated and it has a million pockets.
Unfortunately she no longer sells on Etsy anymore, so my guitar diaper bag is not available




Ok that's it I hope you enjoyed my "professional" opinion on the most needed products for a baby.

xoxo
Melissa