Dylan's Birth Story

It only took my baby turning six weeks old that I finally have a moment to type out his birth story. If those aren't your thing feel free to keep scrolling along. Truth is his birth story is rather short because it turns out my body just loves to crank out babies! (Partially kidding!)

Our team green baby had an estimated due date of April 5th, 2018. So like all good mama's I tried not to really start complaining until I was an estimated four weeks out (ha!) but turns out this baby would be rather stubborn and we had to set an induction date. At first I was bummed about this because on one hand - it's feels strange to "choose" your baby's birthday and also with Presley's birth it was the total opposite. While she was also late (four long days) when I went into labor with her it was go time and without the use of any additional labor enhancers she came into this world rather quickly. We checked into the hospital with her around 1am, I received an epidural around 4am and she was born at 8:37am. In fact she came so fast - we didn't even have time to call many family members as we thought I would be pushing for some time.

So with this baby when my doctor asked me to pick my induction date I set it for exactly 41 weeks and hoped that my body would naturally go into labor on its own. However that wasn't the case and on Thursday, April 12, 2018 David and I checked into the hospital to be induced. Again quite a contrast than with P. I practically collapsed exiting the car when in labor with her and this time I had a full face of makeup and my hair done. Ha!

I was hooked up the machine's around 9:30am and was given a bag of pitocin and then we just hung around and waited. My mother in law was at our home taking care of P and my parents were on standby of when to arrive at the hospital. The initial first 30 minutes of the pitocin were totally bearable but my nurse warned me that every 30 minutes they were going to increase the amount that was going into my body. I think I had literally one contraction that took my breath away and I was calling for an epidural. What can I say? If I can avoid pain - I'm going to.

Once my epidural was administered all was good in my world and they gave me a giant peanut to hold between my legs. It resembles a yoga ball but instead is shaped like a peanut. Its main purpose it to open your cervix and get baby ready for his/her entrance. When my nurse came in to check me after about two hours she stated "okay anytime now" To which I said "What do you mean by that?" and she said "baby will be born within the hour"

Umm whatttt.

So I called my parents and let them know to head over to the hospital. At this point it was noon and P was just getting out of school so we also let my mother in law know that once she had P to head over to the hospital. Luckily its five minutes away!

When I alerted my nurse that I thought it was time to push sure enough I was at a 10. And wouldn't you know it but nine pushes later our newest family member entered the world.

But the best part - well remember we were team green. I had asked the doctor if David could be the one to tell me the gender and she nodded of course yes. So when the baby came out they placed it on my chest and his/her legs were covering its privates. And they kept saying "What is it dad?!" and I swear to you - this moment will forever be seared into my memory because it was so incredibly special. David's hand was on my head, my eyes were locked onto him and he says...

"It's a BOY! Oh my god. It's a boy. It's a boy. It's a boy!"

The emotion that pulsed through him was palpable and while in truth I was in a bit of shock  seeing the pure joy in him was so special. He had never really voiced how much he wanted a boy but it was very clear that day how excited he was.

He called his dad within minutes of the baby being born (he was unable to be there that morning but was there the afternoon we came home from the hospital) to announce the special news. He got to deliver the news to our families in the waiting rooms. It was just such an incredibly special day.

Not knowing the gender until you deliver the baby is so incredibly special. It makes me wish we had done it with P too.

We welcomed our son, Dylan into the world on April 12, 2018 weighing in at 8lbs. 11oz. at 12:37pm and life has never been the same since. We love you little man.

7

Ripple

Like many of us, the tragic events that unfolded on the evening of October 1st in Las Vegas have left me feeling a great magnitude of sadness. For the victims, for the survivors, for Las Vegas, for the state of Nevada, for the United States and in reality for the entire world. How these same types of events seem to keep happening seems unreal. The list seems as if it will never stop growing and the countless faces and stories of the people it takes with them only seem to multiply.

Columbine. Virginia Tech. Aurora. Sandy Hook. Charleston. San Bernadino. Orlando. Las Vegas. 

While I can only speak on behalf of myself, being a young mom, raising a little human in this kind of world just fills you with a sense of dread. A dread of "what if". What is going to happen next and sadder yet - where? Because as time has proven again and again it will. If 20 first graders can die via mass shooting and nothing is done about it, you can guarantee it will happen again. As it has already proven.

I'm not stepping on my invisible soapbox to preach gun control. Mental health help. I don't know the answers and I fear that even with great steps for each of those fields (which both desperately need reform) the crazies will find a way to do what their sick mind is telling them too. So I think about one of my very favorite quotes said by Mother Teresa:

If you want to bring happiness to the whole world, go home and love your family.

When I look at my little girl who's biggest world worries are the fact that I won't let her wear her daytime clothes to bed (seriously a legit battle) and when I look down and see my stomach growing with new life. I can't help but worry and yet feel an immense amount of hope. I worry about the things they will see in their lifetime. The tragedies yet to unfold, the war's we may become active participants in. I worry about a division of people right here in our country. People disliking one another without knowing one another. Religion separating and fear and hate continuing to pulse.

So what can I do? I will go home and love my family. I can't be their shield from all of life's very ugly realities. But I can do my best to show them all its beauty. The beauty that is always, always there even in very ugly situations. I can show them how to look for it, how to help others look for it and to remind them that even in times of great despair. It's there, sometimes not as easy to find, but it's still there.

I can tell them about the people who help. The people who advocate for change. The people who simply decide to love harder and more often. To say it out loud. People who proudly don uniforms to help those in need. Because in times of tragedy they too are always there.

It seems almost too great a task to bear raising the next generation. But at the same time it's too great a task to bear to do so poorly or inadequately. Without love, understanding, kindness and compassion. Our greatest hope is the future we raise. So go home and love your family and let's hope that doing that just a little harder will create a ripple that touches everyone. We owe them that much.

3

Toddler Sleep Problems

I wish I could say now that P is 3 years old. Our sleep issue stemming from babyhood are far behind us. The sad fact is that that couldn't be farther from the truth. David and I are brimming on the edge of insanity while we try and battle our allergic to sleep toddler. I was really optimistic that the start of a full day of preschool (five days a week 8-5pm) would wipe her out come end of day. But with the reintroduction of naps (we eliminated them at home due to this problem) she is back to her old bag of tricks.

But before I jump into the here and now with her sleep issues. I have to go back a couple of months. In May the "paci fairy" came to our house to take all of P's paci's to "deliver to new babies". I was super worried about this transition but turns out she was able to handle it quite well. She was excited about the fairy coming and making her a big girl. About a week went by without too much fanfare in the sleep department and then all ish hit the fan.

P began to have aggressive (and I mean aggressive) night terrors. She no longer knew how to self soothe herself. They would happen every single night and last anywhere from 10 - 45 minutes. Always around two hours after she fell asleep. If you have never experienced a night terror, let me break it down. Night terrors take place when a child cannot for some reason transition into REM sleep. P would cry, flail, scream for help, mommy, daddy and just sob. Inconsolably. When and if her eyes opened they would be glazed over and she clearly was not "with us". It's hard to describe but if you have experienced it you know what I am talking about. As soon as she snaps out of the terror she is back to her giggling, smiling self. Some nights I tell you it's almost like an exorcism.

So we have read a lot and researched a lot and it boiled down to a couple key factors. With the main one being that she is over tired. A lot of other things can contribute (being too hot, too much screen time before bed etc.) but we recognize that P's were likely happening due to the fact that she wasn't getting enough sleep. She wasn't napping and then when she went to bed - she wasn't sleeping well.

This went on for over three very long months and it was distressing. I was praying that once preschool started we would have some hope in sight. And while the terrors have lessened quite a bit (about 1x a week) we are now dealing with a toddler who simply does not want to sleep. When she finally falls asleep she is waking up anywhere from 3-5 times a night. This working mama is EXHAUSTED.

So this incredibly long post is basically a cry for help if any other parents are experiencing this. I also know there is a habit I need to break and while I have tried, I am also miserably failing. Because I am so damn tired that it's easier to just give in than fight her. She gets a sippy cup of milk before bed and I know that this is hurting us as she wakes up and cries for it. I've tried to swap it out with water but it's not cutting it (and truth is we are potty training so really she shouldn't be drinking anything!)

P's schedule is as follows:

7-7:30am: wake up get ready for preschool
8-8:30am: arrives at preschool
1-3pm: nap time at preschool (she doesn't always nap this full period)
6:30-7pm: dinner
7:30pm: bath
8-8:30pm: books and bed

She usually doesn't fall asleep until 9:30-10pm. Our pediatrician even suggested I give her children's benadryl for two weeks to try an disrupt her sleep cycles. So I gave it to her last night for the first time and she still slept like crap. We've tried lavender Epsom salt in the tub, essential oils, waking her up before a terror starts (never a good idea with her as it has always triggered a terror), putting her to sleep early, putting her to sleep later. For the love of the SANDMAN go to sleep child!!!

If you have made it to the end of this congrats. If you have advice for me, even better, I'm all ears just don't mind if I close my eyes.

play gown // Plain Jane

9

Motherhood

Motherhood. One small word - so much meaning. I could tell you a million things about the way these images make me feel. But above anything else they make me feel love. Loved. I'm not perfect. It's hard juggling being a wife, a mother, a full time worker, a blogger and run a small business (heck it's tiring just to type it all out!) But this lady and her smile let me know we are all doing just fine.

I am so grateful that I got to spend a morning getting prepped and prettied by Lisa to have our memories captured by Meg. As someone who knows all too well the importance of photography and being in the frame. I'm grateful to have heeded my own advice for once.

For every mama on this Mother's Day I wish you the happiest most special day.

all photos by Meg Sexton

hair and makeup Lisa Teller
florals Fringe Flowers
P's dress Autta Lou
my dress

10

Because I am here too

Vanessa Lentine Photography

Because you're still so little

Because you say "gweem" instead of green

Because if it doesn't twirl it may as well be donated - skirt size matters

Because your ringlets may disappear with your first haircut

Because your best idea is always, always, always a purple Popsicle

Because you lean your head to the side and place your hands together when you're being sweet or tying to get your way

Because we can convince you to eat chicken if we clap really hard and yell out "YAY!" after every bite

Because you still let me rock you like a baby, even if only for a minute, after a bath

Because you have an odd fascination with "scary spiders"

Because every night we say "I love you", "I love you more", "I love you most!" (even though it's what Rapunzel's evil mom says in Tangled)

Because dancing around to bibbity-bobbity-boo is your absolute favorite

Because when daddy leaves it's always traumatic - even if it's just to take out the garbage

Because one day you will grow up

Because I am your mama, and I was there too.

This year I am forcing myself to get in front of the lens more. For P's memories and for my own. I don't want to look back at her whole childhood and not have myself in more photos. It's my 2017 challenge to myself and I encourage you to do the same.

Because you are here too and one day she will want to look back and remember. She won't notice you don't have makeup on or the number on the inside of your pants. She will just see her mama that she loves so very much.

7

Life Lately

I can't believe February is already here. Things are rolling ahead at such a quick pace I have to stop and remember to take a breath sometimes. As much as I wish life was always like those pretty Instagram squares it's not. But that's okay - we tend to embrace the mess around here. We are so excited to take P up to Lake Tahoe in two short weeks to experience snow for the first time. I can practically hear her squeals of delight when on a sled. I can also hear the sobs when I put on her snow clothing for the first time.

I treated myself to a pair of Sorel's (with the help of some gift certificates) and now I need more excuses to get up into the mountains. I don't think David will be complaining about that since my typical year round attire is flip flops. Let's see how I handle being cold AF.

P is growing so fast and delivering the best one liners. The words she knows and understands continues to amaze me. "Oh mommy, you're so funny" is one of my favorites. She is a wild, strong willed child but my gosh do I love her something fierce. These days she also likes to tell me "No mama, it's too big" in regards to something she doesn't want to wear. If it doesn't twirl I can basically forget about it.

I'm in the middle of finally updating some of the things in our bedroom now that P's room is overflowing done. (Hardly any of which is pictured above as it was in the wash!) I recently purchased this duvet and this quilt for the bottom of the bed. Our room is pretty small so that creates a bit of a hinderance when decorating.  I think all it needs next is a rug and that will make it feel more homey. This room has been neglected for so long - it's nice to actually look forward to crawling into bed.

I've got Finn curled up at my feet and a cough ricohcheting so hard off my ribcage it's giving me a headache. With three sessions to edit on my queue it's time to say adieu!

Hope you are all having a great week!

6

Life Lately

Since its been raining so much in these parts we've just been sitting back and enjoying the indoors. We even decided to break out P's kitchen (that I've held onto since last June!) finally for playtime. Also because rain for an entire week can equal two batty parents. These are just some snaps from the first couple of weeks of January.

It's obvious that P's room is the favorite and I am hoping this year to focus a little more on our bedroom. I can hardly call it a master (it's the same size as P's!) but it desperately needs some love. So onwards to my next project!

3

Food Dye + Toddler = Disaster

You guys I have to share a pretty funny story about a parenting fail that happened earlier this week. It's one of those stories that I will likely tell P as she grows up that will make her laugh and she will want to hear it again and again. So for documentation sake I have to write it down.

On Monday I came home from work and was super tired so I decided to take a quick power nap on the couch. P was in front of me playing with her toys and David was working on something in the garage. So I was curled up under a blanket with Olympics on the background and closed my eyes.

Then I hear her, "mama, mama, mama, mama!"

I crack open my eyes and see nothing but 10 tiny little digits coming towards me - and they were green. I open my eyes wider and sit up and see that P not only has green on her face but her whole entire hands are covered. As in imagine dipping your hands into cans of green paint.

Immediately I realized she had discovered where the food coloring was. And as I quickly filled up the tub I could see her little green hand prints everywhere. The doors, the couch, the edge of our bed. I grabbed her and held her at arms length fearing she would ruin one of my favorite sweaters. I plopped her right into that bubbly tub and just let her skin soak. Luckily with a little patience (and a lot of scrubbing) most of the dye was removed. Aside from her cuticles which three days later are still green.

It was such an in the moment thing of sheer wtf I couldn't even snap a photo - and damn I sure wish I did! You see P is very much into arts and crafts these days and over the weekend I had bought her a watercolor kit. A washable watercolor kit. Heck I even let her do it inside! So when she found the green food dye she took it over to her painting paper and began painting with it. It really could have gone so much worse.

David and I had a good laugh about it and I removed all the other food dye from the cupboard and moved it to safer (i.e. higher) ground. As I was doing so I thought....oh shit.

"Where are the yellow and red?"

I couldn't find them anywhere and knew it was a matter of time of who would find it first. Us or her.
Fast forward to Thursday when David shows me the kiddie pool filled with yellow water and says "guess who found the yellow first?" Oh she found it alright and proceeded to smear it all over her body. Jaundice anyone?

Moral of the story: food dye comes out in the wash and never sleep when your toddler is awake.

And since this post comes with no pictures let's just remember her in cleaner times - and cleaner water.

8

Paci Problems

I have a love hate relationship with my daughters pacifier. Better known as the adoringly loving name of paci. We have always used a pacifier, never had nipple or bottle confusion, and honestly I relied on it as a means to peace and quiet. Our pediatrician told us to yank it at 9 months and I nervously nodded my head in agreement. Knowing full well, mama wasn't yanking that paci. It was for both of us after all.

Now here we are approaching two and the paci has turned into a full on obsession. She sees it, she wants it and if she doesn't get it...watch out. Because the terror's of two that up until now have seemed a myth have reared their ugly head. Her mouth opens long before you hear the scream, the crocodile tears pour out nice and large and then she just lets it rip. Oftentimes a whole body flop to the ground is followed.

I don't know who this is going to be harder on her or me, but I am tired of that damn piece of plastic dominating our life. So you have any tips lay them on me (and if I am still talking about the pacifier in a year don't hold it against me!)

9

Twonager

I know people are all about the threenager stage these days but I am already fearing two. Oh man my sweet little precocious child has turned into a body throwing, temper tantrum throwing little crazy person.  She stays up so late at night that I hardly am finding time to do anything these days. I need a warm bath, bath bomb & a grayhound stat.

I feel like she is also mere moments away from learning how to climb out of her crib. When that day comes I am just going to give up and surrender to my new boss...Presley. I am beginning to think Hawaii with a two year old was one of my crazier ideas...

5

Heavy hearted

Tonight I put my baby to sleep in her crib.

I read her a story, I listened to her slurp her milk, I watched her tiny hands rub her tiny eyelashes.

After I said "I love you, sweet dreams" and closed the door to her bedroom. I got terribly sad. The headlines coming out of Orlando, FL this week have been nothing short of a nightmare. A young singer shot for living out a dream, a hate crime and the deadliest mass shooting in America, and now the story of young Lane Graves, attacked and killed by an alligator.

I have thought about that sweet baby boy all day. How he is my daughter's age. Can likely say mama, dada and maybe I love you. I've thought about how when they return to the airport a carseat will be empty on the ride home. Maybe old cheerios in the cupholder, a favorite toy left in the seat.

I opened the door to my daughter's nursery and went in and picked her right up. Her soft curls laying into my face, her cheek finding the perfect resting spot on my shoulder. I sat there and I just rocked and hugged her. We read another book and looked up at the stars illuminating her ceiling. I just needed to hold her again, to feel her.

I hugged her tighter tonight because of Lane. I hugged her tighter because my heart aches, it physically hurts in my chest, imagining the road ahead for the Graves family. I cannot stop thinking about them, about Lane, how that could have happened to anyone. There is no debate to be had here. It could have happened to anyone.

Hug your babies.

Rest in Peace Lane

12

Oh the guilt

I think that the instant we become a parent the word guilt is quickly associated with many things we do. While pregnant you think am I eating healthy enough? Talking to the baby enough? With your toddler you worry about if you engage them enough. Stretch their minds enough. Get them outside to play enough.

It's constant and I know that most parents feel it in some form one way or another.

Mine however is beginning to feel at an all time high.

Ever since my journey into photography has become a second job I worry that it is impacting my daughter. While I try to space time between shoots and not book jobs some weekends all together I am constantly working. Which my goodness is such a blessing and I am fully aware of that as I never dreamed to be this busy. However between a full time job and now a part time photography business I am beginning to feel the guilt.

It comes in many ways. Guilt that I schedule sessions at 10am so I am not spending weekend morning's with my daughter. Guilt that I really enjoy taking photographs and having some creative me time. Guilt that sometimes I don't curl into my husband on the couch because I have photos to edit.

G U I L T

I even feel guilty that this blog has taken somewhat of a backbone. Because I adore this space and the community of creatives I have met because of it. So I guess this was just a mini "I need to get this off my chest" session. 

Tell me how you deal with all of it and find the best balance.

I just want to be my best everyday and never look back and say "I wish I did..."

vanessa lentine photography

7

Life Lately

Oh goodness I seem to have fallen away from this space of mine and I blame that entirely on myself. You see I now have this thing with photos that if they are taken on my iphone - I don't want them uploaded anywhere. Facebook, instagram, this blog - and it's actually a terrible thing. One because I just don't have as much time to be whipping out my big camera with my family since I have been busy taking on clients. Two that leaves me with a lot of silence around social media. So I must get better about this!

I can't believe that come August P will be turning two. At her 18 month appointment her vocabulary was very small (maybe 5 words?) and while her pediatrician said he wasn't concerned he did say we will revisit it at 2 years old. Well of course that led to me worrying that she wasn't talking (or learning!) enough but I swear once she hit 20 months it was like the lightbulb went off.

The words she chooses to pick up on are hilarious too. We have this Melissa & Doug puzzle with bears of all different colors on it. Under each bear it says the color. Of all the colors to learn she learned aqua - so random. David and I even said why of all colors is aqua listed?

aquadumb.

Is it Friday yet?

10

For me because of you

One of my favorite things in the world is when I pull my daughter from her crib, nuzzle my nose into her cheek, smell her baby breath and just squeeze her. The novelty of it never wears thin. Each morning is new, each movement the same. Pick up, snuggle, squeeze & kiss.

Her wild curls untamed, her big eyes staring, whispering underneath her pacifier. I want to freeze this moment in my mind. The way the light cracks through the blinds, the piles of board books, the countless stuffed animals, the mess of it all. Maybe, just maybe, one day I will be able to get through I'll Love You Forever without tearing up.

"Mama" she says while pointing at me. She touches my face staring at me as if I am new, but once the familiarity hits her she nuzzles me right back. Head on shoulder, body curled into mine. She pats her hand on my back, as she leans in closer. A behavior no doubt learned from our own hugs to her. A reassuring "I love you" rhythm over and over.

While Mother's Day is for me, it's because of you.

Thank you for making me your mama.

pps I love you

10

Mother's Day

When I think about Mother's Day and what being a mom really means to me. I think first about my mom and all the mother like influences in my life that really have shaped me into the mom that I am today.

My sisters are ten and six years older than me and although I was a brat to them most of my early life. They have always been more than motherly to me. They were the people I called when I was too scared to call our own parents. They were the people I told first when I found out I was expecting (sorry babe!) They are the mom's I look to when I am uncertain and the mom's I feel so fortunate to grow up alongside. I seriously could not imagine life without my sisters.

Then there is my mama. I have her eyes and if I am half as good hearted as she - well I would be a pretty great kid. I give her more sass than she deserves and I am definitely the child with the most attitude. But my mom is easily my biggest cheerleader. She shares my hard work, compliments me on my writing and just loves me despite all my flaws. I wish I could travel back in time to see a younger her, rocking a younger me. Because when I hold my daughter and think "I love her so much I could die" I know that is exactly how my mom thinks of me. My mom is always there for me no matter what.

And beyond my own bloodlines I have a mother in law that makes most of my friends envious. She is fun, always up for an adventure and never takes anything too seriously.  She also supports me and loves me like I am one of her own. David is incredibly thoughtful and caring and I know that is because of how he was raised. He never fails to make me feel special on any given day.

I would be amiss to leave out all the mother's I have by my side as we all navigate new parenthood. My friends who I late night text, the ones we help tug through those new days. The friends that are family we get to choose. All the mother's I have met here because of this blog. The mother's who wish for nothing more than a miracle baby, or the mother's who call their four legged companions children. Every single interaction I have with these people is a direct correlation of the way I mother my own child.

These people make me better, make me realize there are multiple ways to do something, and I am so grateful for each and every one.

Happy Mother's Day.

8

Back to me

Happy Cinco de Mayo! I wish I was doing something fun paired with a sombrero but instead as you're reading this I am likely sitting in a dentist chair. Woof.

I am so excited to introduce my newly rebranded photography page! My other one was on a blogger (because obvi it was a comfortable platform for me!) but it just didn't feel like a real working website. I discovered squarespace and after some trial and error I figured out how to go about setting up my new site. Check it out and tell me what you think!

Photography has given something to me I cannot explain. The act of simply creating something centers me. Anyone who reads here knows that upon returning to work after having my daughter was quite difficult for me. I struggled to know where I belonged and really who I was because I always thought I would be a stay at home mom.

Photography has given me back so much of me. It has me thirsty to learn more, excited about new opportunities and is opening new avenues for supporting my family. I am so excited to see where this all takes me. My dreams are shifting and I am so grateful for growth. Change can be so very good.

Okay off my soapbox. Hope you all have a fun Cinco even if it only means getting extra guac!

Also want to wish my mama a very special birthday today! Love you!!

10

They don't see me strollin'

I've talked about it ad naseum but there was one thing I wasn't prepared for when I started working closer to home. In fact it honestly had not even crossed my mind until I went out to lunch yesterday and they were everywhere.

They as in strollers.

With P being over 19 months old now I have grown accustomed to working. We have a routine, it works, heck I even have a side business. So being away from her is something I have grown used to (and often enjoy)! When I was in San Francisco I would see strollers all the time and it didn't phase me. But there is something about being in my town at all the places I go to post 5pm or on weekends that it suddenly felt like 100 strollers rolled over me.

I was envious of the mom who's kid was crying in Target at noon. I was envious of the group of ladies having a playdate. And while athletic clothes are not my go to - I was envious of all the elastic waistbands surrounding me. So.much.leisure.wear.

I really don't think the grass is greener on the other side. It's green where you water it. So tomorrow after I walk to work (and inevitably pass a stroller or two) I will say hello with a nod of my head and just know that all my bathroom breaks today will be nothing but bliss. Silver linings right?

Proof that the grass is greener where you water it. Like this empty lot above my house!

5

Blogger Baby Registry Favorites

Hey everyone! I have teamed up with  a bunch of other bloggers for Britt's Baby Registry 101 series. 10 bloggers have brought you a selection of our favorite picks and we hope this narrows things down for anyone deciding what to register for! Keep in mind these are just our experiences with certain items and it all depends on what works for you. The Wubbanub did not work for us (plus I wasn't all about the stuffed animal on it) but people swear by it. Mam fans over here (especially the glow in the dark ones!)

If I can give one piece of advice it is to buy yourself a nice camera. I know I say this partially because I love photography but I can assure you that your iPhone is just not good enough for that yummy newborn. Sure it's easy and available but you won't regret whipping out the big camera - especially when it comes time to print. Just some food for thought!

Hi, everyone! My name is Brittany and I blog over at Life as the Mrs. I'm married to my husband of 5 1/2 years, Brandon, and we are the proud parents of Walker (2) and baby boy #2, who is due May 25. We live in a suburb of Dallas, Texas, and I'm a Texas girl through and through. As one of our friends (who is from Chicago) like to say, "You Texans are pretty much proud of everything!" I have to agree. ;)

Having had one baby and another one on the way, Brandon and I had a lot of trial-and-error with baby products. We learned quickly that what works best for some might not work best for us (or others), but once we found what worked, we stuck with it! We plan to use a lot of the same things for baby #2, but did upgrade on a few products. Here are my Top 5 Baby Registry Must-Haves:

1. Puj Tub: The Puj Tub is a great thing to have at your disposal once you can give baby an actual bath. This little tub uses magnets to fold and fit perfectly in your bathroom or kitchen sink, and we loved that Walker didn't slip and slide in it. The soft foam material is easy to clean, and it dries hanging flat, so you don't worry about mold or mildew getting in the little cracks and crevices. We are definitely using this for Baby #2, too!

2. Dr. Brown's Bottle Warmer: We used Dr. Brown's bottles with Walker, and they were a lifesaver for us because of his reflux. So, I knew I didn't have to use the Dr. Brown's bottle warmer to accompany the bottles (and didn't at first and instead went with cheaper options), but we found it was the only bottle warmer that didn't leak and/or crap out on us after a few weeks of use. I did replace this for Baby #2 since Walker's got a little nasty from breast milk and/or formula spills, but that was total user error!

3. Ubbi Diaper Pail: My sweet blogger friend Aileen recommended the Ubbi Diaper Pail to us and sang its praises -- most notably the fact that you don't have to use expensive refills like you do with other diaper systems, including the Diaper Genie (which we had with Walker and I loathed). We purchased this ahead of Baby #2's arrival since Walker is still in diapers, and we have been very impressed with it! Not only does it take regular kitchen trash bags, it condenses the smell a lot better and I think holds more diapers.

4. Fisher Price Swing: Oh, the Fisher-Price "My Little Snugapuppy" Swing, I will sing your praises forever. Walker loved this sweet little swing (in addition to the corresponding bouncer) and took many a naps in this thing. I liked that it wasn't too complicated, was easy to clean and could rock both back-and-forth and side-to-side. We will definitely be using this for Baby #2!

5. Wubbanub Pacifier: We used Wubbanubs from the second Walker came home from the hospital. They're little stuffed animals attached to a Soothie pacifier, which is what hospitals offer newborns (if they're pro-pacificer and you are, too) and Walker took to immediately. The weight of the animal helped keep the pacifier in his mouth, especially at night, and the older he got, the little animal made it easier for him to pick up and put back in his mouth. Plus, they're just adorable! 

Hi, I'm Julie! I'm a Michigan based Mama behind the blog - Just the Joy's. I am blessed with a beautiful sassy 11 month old baby girl and have another bundle of Joy on the way! In the short time since I've become a Mom, I've learned about sooooo many products that I've found to be life savers or some that are straight up useless. Here are some of my most used (read: wouldn't want to live without) baby registry items!

1. Portable High Chair

This item right here is hands down one of my favorite gifts we received! My girlfriend hit the nail on the head with this one! Especially because it's pink camo! Which is perfect for us being hunters... but no worries, it comes in many other colors too! We use this while camping, weekend traveling, family gatherings, or when going to a babysitter's house is needed. It could even be used at a restaurant if desired! It folds up easily and is compact. It even has a handy storage bag with a strap for over the shoulder carrying!

2. Dr. Brown's Bottle Warmer
Sometimes (read: all the time) it's all about making a Mom's life easier! Although I did breast feed, we mostly relied on pumping and bottle feeding. When you have a screaming hungry baby, the few minutes it takes to get that bottle ready seem like an eternity! I originally had the mindset that I would be frugal and just use hot water in a cup every time I needed to heat a bottle... until I went to a friend's and used her Dr. Brown bottle warmer.... less than 3 minutes and I was ready to go! Also, I love that it sterilizes the nipple while warming the milk. I also love that it fits both 4oz or 8oz bottles. You can also sterilize pacifier's or warm baby food! And lastly, it's so simple to use! Convenience for the win!

3. Ergo Performance Baby Carrier

As mentioned above, it's all about making life easier! Having a baby carrier allows you to give your baby the attention he/she needs as well as be hands free and able to do other things such as cooking or cleaning or walking around the farmer's market without running people over with a stroller. When she was a smaller baby, I often used the Moby wrap as well. Which was very comfortable and more natural feeling, yet a little more time consuming to put on. You can also purchase an infant insert for the Ergo. I chose the Performance style Ergo because it has a breathable mesh so you or the baby don't get hot and sweaty, there's padding along the waist band as well as the shoulder straps to make for extra comfort, and lastly, it's super easy to put on!

4. Braun Forehead Thermometer
As you may already know, getting a baby/toddler to sit still long enough for a temperature read can be nearly impossible. As if having a sick child isn't bad enough as it is! That's why I absolutely love this thermometer! It's super simple, painless, quick, and gives an accurate reading!

5. Cozy Cart and Chair Cover

Did you know that grocery store shopping carts have more germs than public restrooms?? Anyone else a germ-o-phobe like myself?! If you are, this cover is like gold! If I had to estimate how many times I've used this, I'd say at least 100 times! It's not just for shopping carts, but it's also great for restaurant highchairs!

Bonus: Fitted crib mattress and large multi use pads. The fitted crib pad is great for night time leaks and definitely saves the mattress. It fits great under a crib sheet. The large multi use pads are great for using in a bassinet or pack and play and can even be used in a toddler bed. Secret tip: I kept one in my pickup while I was pregnant for the moment my water broke and I had to drive to the hospital. My husband was thoroughly impressed that I was prepared for that moment and that I didn't leak on the leather seats! ;)

   

Hey ya'll! I'm Jessi from Jessi's Design and I am the proud (semi) new Mama to Miss Anderson Greer who is 11 months old. We live in small town Virginia and take Southern charm to a whole new level. Have ya'll seen the onesie that says "Well dressed Southern mess?" that probably sums it up in these parts!

1. Pack-n-play: We STILL use this as our main changing station and she actually slept in this for her first 6 months of life. The newborn napper was perfect for the first few weeks and it can be removed when no longer needed. These things are so easy to take along for traveling and we have LOVED it.

2. Motorola video monitor: This monitor has been a life saver. The range is fantastic and so is the sound. You can talk to your babe through it and even soothe them with music. It is a must have for any home!  

3. Baby Brezza: We purchased the Baby Brezza at Target when Andi started solids. It was SO easy to use and so money-saving/efficient. It is an excellent way to make your own baby food and so user friendly!  

4. 4moms Plush Mamaroo Infant Seat: Ya'll, this is a MUST. It's on the pricey side but so worth it. This thing definitely got used to the max. We traveled with this everywhere we went until she outgrew it. It has the coolest movement and sound settings - I give it an A++  

5. Wubbanub: The simple wubbanub! You can't go wrong and pick out so many different animals and colors. Andi didn't take to a paci very well but loved that it was attached to a plush animal that she could cuddle!

I'm Courtney and I blog over at A + Life! I'm a stay at home, homeschooling mama to Abigail(5 years) and Mabel(10 months). I blog about motherhood, home decor, family, infertility, faith, and well- just about anything and everything. We live in Joplin, Missouri, are active in our church, and love to cheer for the Kansas City Royals(yes, we're STILL crazy excited about the World Series). I would love it if you stopped by my blog to say hello!

My most very favorite baby products are actually ALL new products for baby #2! I didn't use any of them with my first daughter, so I like to think that with some experience on my side this time around, I've really found some of the greatest baby items available. My top 5 look like this:

1. Solly Baby Wrap: I never did any baby wearing the first time around. But it has been the most wonderful discovery for me! Mabel is 10 months old and we are still using the Solly! It is soft and comfortable. Breathable and light. We have it in a dark gray fabric, but the endless color options on their site make it hard to choose just one! I can't recommend this baby product enough. It is my top baby item rec.

2. Little Unicorn Swaddles: These blankets were absolutely perfect for my summer baby! They are HUGE but also light and gauzy and just perfect. With so many sweet prints to choose from, they are stylish, comfortable, and such a great baby item.

3. Rock N Play:  The RNP. Also known as a total LIFE SAVER. Mabel slept in this thing beside my bed for a solid seven months. Oh and if she wasn't napping in the Solly baby wrap, she was napping in this instead. I had heard so many people talk about this as magical baby item- but I skipped it the first time around. BIG MISTAKE. Huge! Don't skip this one!

4. Bumbo Seat and Activity Tray: So Abigail had a Bumbo seat that she used all of one time. Her legs were way, way, WAY too fat to fit inside it. Well, Bumbo got it together and remade their seat. It's contoured differently now and is shaped way better for fat baby legs. I was sent a new seat and this activity tray to try out(actually before Mabel was even born!) and it quickly became one of our absolute favorite baby items. As soon as Mabel could hold her head up she LOVED being in this seat! She could play and sit in the same room as big sister and I and it made everyone so happy. We stopped using it once she could sit up on her own, but before then, we seriously used it all the time and really put some major mileage on that thing.

5. Boon Flair High Chair: we just recently had a need for a high chair(perhaps I should mention that we dealt with secondary infertility for years so we sold all of our baby stuff and had to replace it all when we got pregnant again?) We started solids with Mabel around 7 months so we only just recently got a new one! After hating the space saver high chair we had with Abigail, I did some research and waited for a sale. I scored the fabulous Boon Flair for a great price! It has been amazing. Who knew you could love a high chair so much? Easy to clean, great to use. It rolls on our wood floors and has hydraulics so you can raise and lower it. Plus, it doesn't take up one of our dining room chairs. It is all around fabulous and I highly recommend it! 

Hi! I'm Cait from Home Sweet Ruby. Currently a Charleston resident, I'm a boy mama to a rambunctious 13 month old. I'm currently navigating the world of motherhood while attempting to maintain my sense of self and a sense of humor one cheap glass of Pinot noir at a time. Here's the deal with babies and registries. You need a lot of stuff. It's super easy to get sucked into all of the fancy gear and adorable toys directed towards that newborn stage. I confess that we have an abnormally large amount of swaddle blankets. Apparently I also have a thing for pants and pajamas with animals on the butt. But once my son got to the "doesn't sit still for more than 5 seconds stage," we didn't have anything to keep him busy.

We were also ill-prepared for solid food and sippy cups. So when friends ask me for registry advice, I always tells them to remember your babe is going to grow out of most of the stuff you register for and you'll have to drop a couple hundred on Amazon Prime just to keep up. So, I give you my top five items for after the newborn stage, which as I look at it mostly consists of meal time gear. Maybe we just eat a lot?! That white noise machine though, do yourself a favor and use that from day one. Sleep Sheep doesn't stand a chance.

1. IKEA Highchair: So simple, easy to clean, $20 (!!), and that sweet babe of yours can use it from the time he or she is sitting up. Highly, highly recommend. Originally we registered for different highchair and the fabric was always a B to clean and it was bulky. So off to IKEA we went!  

2. White Noise Machine: Natural white noise sound, doesn't shut off automatically, and its still going over a year later. Having something to drown out noise and mimic the sounds your babe heard before he or she was born is crucial.

3. VTech Sit to Stand Walker: This is an all time favorite toy in our household! Mind you, your Achilles and baseboards will take quite a few hits but I think this walker was a huge reason why my son walked so early.  

4. Bowls and Cups: The suction on these Munchkin bowls ensure my son can't chuck them at the dog and after extensive testing, the Miracle 360 sippy cup is a clear winner- easy to clean and no leaking.  

5. Snack Keeper: This snack keeper can withstand being dropped (read: thrown) five thousand times and we haven't lost a Cheerio yet. You can check out my newborn registry favorites here, see my love affair with my diaper bag here, take a peak at Rowan's nursery here, and hear my thoughts on our Britax R-Ready stroller here!

Hi there! Y'all are here so no intro necessary! Here are my top five picks:

1. HALO Velcro Swaddles: When I became a mom I was one of those that thought my daughter didn't like to be swaddled. "Oh she really likes her hands by her face" I would say. It wasn't until 5 weeks later that it dawned on me that she has no idea what she likes! So I tucked those little newborn arms under her and swaddled. It was the first time she slept over 5 hours. Velcro swaddles made my life so much easier - no tucking & folding. Just a zip and press. I like HALO for their wide array of selections when it comes to fabric, sizes and prints.

2. Solly Wrap: I love baby wearing - in fact it's one of my most missed things about my daughter being so tiny. What I love about the Solly Wrap is that is is lightweight and breathable, convenient to ball up and throw into my diaper bag and easy to put on as well. I could wear my daughter for hours and it instantly calmed her. There are many benefits to baby wearing including promoting bonding with your child, being able to be hands free & even helps to reduce postpartum depression - just to name a few!

3. Boppy Changing Pad Liners: Babies require multiple diaper changes a day. You will find that sometimes you are just not quick enough to catch it all. These liners made changing time so much easier. Instead of having to wash the changing pad cover each time I simply put a new liner down. Trust me when I say add it to your registry.   

4. Boon Lawn: When it comes to babies it means that a lot of washing is in your future. From clothing to bottles if something makes life easier than I am all about that. The Boon lawn is great because it collects excess water at the bottom the tray, has ample storage and a low profile. It also comes with cute accessories for things like bottle nipples and pacifiers. Bonus - it nicely dries wine glasses.  

5. One Piece Pajamas: When I found out I was having a girl I immediately began shopping. Mini jeggings and lots of dresses and bows were awaiting her arrival. Well I should have known that when she arrived it would be much easier to zip her into a cozy little one piece. We never have enough of these and seeing a baby in footy pajamas never gets old. We are big fans of Carter's fleece & cotton snug fit pajamas.

Hi it's Jillian from Cornflake Dreams. I live in Charleston, South Carolina with my husband and one-year old daughter Violet. Our family loves taking long walks around our neighborhood and downtown.

1. Happy Wrap Baby Carrier or Solly Baby Wraps: These are great for bringing along the baby for walks. Both wraps are lightweight and breathable.

2. Rock 'N Play: Another must-have registry item is the fisher price rock n play -- Violet loved sleeping in it and we used it until she was four months old. It was so convenient to move it around the house and she could nap anywhere.

3. Lulujo Baby Bamboo Swaddle: We swaddled Violet from the waist down when she slept and Lulujo baby bamboo swaddle are our favorites. They are super soft and have so many uses after your little one stops being swaddled (Violet uses hers now as a lightweight blanket). I like the xoxo + twinkle stars prints.

4. Baby Bjorn Bouncer: This was our mealtime friend -- it was the only thing Violet would sit in while mom and dad ate dinner. She especially liked the wooden toy that attached onto it.

5. Dr. Brown Gia breastfeeding pillow: Makes breastfeeding easy and comfortable. 

Hi there, lovely readers! My name is Jessica, and I blog over on a little slice of the internet called The Newly. You can find me there almost daily recounting the adventures of life with two crazy littles and a husband completing a surgical residency. Brittany and I have been blog friends for a while now, so when she asked me if I wanted to participate in this super fun collaboration, I was so excited. When I was pregnant with my first baby - my son Caleb - I remember being completely overwhelmed by all the information that gets thrown at you when it is time to register. I would have loved a comprehensive guide to registering like Brittany has put together over the last few weeks, so I am happy to contribute what I know!

1. Tommee Tippee Bottles: We have tried a variety of bottles, and two kids later, have decided that Tommee Tippees are the only ones for us. As a breastfeeding mama that wanted her children to be able to take milk from a bottle when needed, these just seemed to do the trick. The nipples are designed to closely resemble a real nipple...and maybe my kids are gullible. Or maybe they just work. Because both my son and my daughter have loved these bottles. Total believer.  

2. Blooming Baby Bath: We never wanted one of the big bulky infant bath tubs taking up space in our home. No, thanks. With Caleb, we purchased a foam bather that we placed in the bottom of the tub during bath time. It worked well...except for one little problem. There was no way to clean it, so after a few baths, it would have to be tossed. With Vivian,  we registered for the Blooming Baby Bath. And we have LOVED it! Its compact, soft, flexible, washable, and so stinking cute. It can be used in the sink or tub. Highly recommend.  

3. Aden & Anais Swaddles: Another product we didn't have with Caleb that we invested in for Vivian were the Aden & Anais swaddle blankets that you hear everyone droning on and on about it. Well, I can attest to the droning - they are well worth the money. These blankets are lightweight and breathable. And the size is perfect. They can double as nursing covers and infant carrier covers (keep those strangers from touching/breathing on your sweet newborn!) Trust me. Buy them.  

4. Paci Clips: I was given some cute, expensive pacifier clips as well as several of the Wubbanubs to try with both babies. But these simple Walmart clips have been more well-used than any others. They are less than $5 each, and last for forever. They wash well. The clips stay tight. Babies can't pull them off. And you don't have to worry about where baby's paci went - especially in the car while driving. Amen.

5. Rock n Play: We had a bassinet that we used with both Caleb and Vivian, but if we did not have that, I would have bought a Rock n Play in a hurry. All - and I mean ALL - of my mama friends swear by theirs. They are perfect for newborns to sleep in during those first few weeks at home. They are easily portable and can be carried from room to room (unlike the bassinet that we used). And they supposedly work wonders with creating the perfect environment for long naps. Winning. Hope this helps! And good luck, mamas:) 

Hi, all!! I am Jess from Scott Family of Maine! We have a 3.5 year old boy, Cameron, and a 9 month old girl, Louise, so I am basically an expert at baby products! I remember registering for the first time...I think I added and deleted about 23,843 products before deciding on a final list. When we found out I was pregnant with Louise, I started looking at some new items because, let's be honest, I didn't use half the stuff I got for Cam and ended up needing completely different stuff that I had to buy. Some of these items are tried and true (rocker, swaddle, bumbo, pacis) and some items are new pieces that have worked like a charm for Louise (high chair and security blanket). 

1. Fisher Price Rock and Play: This is a lifesaver. (I might say that about everything on this list!) Both kids slept in this for naps and nighttime, until they were too old about five months. It folds up and stores easily, cleans easily and makes life easier. :) 

2. Miracle Blanket: Cameron was super colic-y, so THIS helped us so much! It's like a straight jacket for babies, but as soon as you wrap them in it, they calm down. It's also virtually impossible to break out of, so they sleep longer. 

3. Aden & Anais Security Blanket: Louise does not calm down or sleep without this. She LOVES to have something over her face (weird), and this is totally breathable. It's also small enough to bring places, so we don't worry about it dragging on the ground and getting dirty. And the silky edge is perfect for rubbing. We have six of these, in case you need to know how important they are to us!

4. Boon Flair Highchair: I totally got this on a SUPER sale, but we call it our "magic" chair. We put Louise in it, and she's fine for an hour. She could have nothing in front of her, and she'll sit in it and be happy. It's high enough to sit at our island, it's on wheels (amazing) and it's so easy to clean. (Can you tell I don't love to clean?!) If you see it on sale or you're having more than one kid, BUY THIS!

5. Bumbo and Bumbo Activity Center: A favorite for both kids. Once babies realize that they don't have to lie down all the time, they want to sit all. the. time. We used this as a high chair, before they could sit in a real high chair, too. And the activity center...great time passer before they can move around! 

Bonus: MAM Pacifiers: Both of our kids use(d) these, but I know every kid has a difference preference. The reason that I really love these is because they have ones that glow in the dark!! Hello...smartest idea ever! We also LOVE the Bob stroller, Graco infant car seat, Fisher Price swing, Baby Einstein playmat and exersaucer, Ergo 360 and Dr Brown Bottles. Hi, everyone! I'm Brittany and I'm the mama to a wild 11 month old little man named Logan. My husband and I live in a suburb of Indianapolis where we both work full time. When I'm not working or loving on my little goofball, you can find me blogging over at Perpetually Daydreaming. Here are some of my very favorite baby products to include on your registry. 

1. NoseFrida:  My little man has been in daycare since he was three months old and there is just nothing like those daycare germs! Getting sick is inevitable and when your babe gets hit, you'll want him to be able to breathe. In my opinion, nothing works better for cleaning out snotty noses than the Nosefrida. While I have a love/hate relationship with it (Love how it works, hate having to wrangle my little to use it) I consider it an essential.   

2. Dr. Brown’s Bottles and Dishwasher Basket:  Hands down the best bottles. I know lots of people swear by these, myself included. We had a little incident with a different brand of bottles where my little guy was getting too much air and it. was. awful! We switched to Dr. Brown's at one month old and haven't looked back. We like the wide neck kind because it's easier to pour formula into them. And the dishwasher basket is specially designed for Dr. Brown's bottle parts, so you know they are getting clean. 

3. Halo Sleepsack Swaddle: I love these sleepsacks! The velcro swaddles and zippers are so convenient when they are little and need swaddled and also act as a cozy (but not too hot) blanket. They are high quality cotton material and come in lots of fun prints. I also love the regular sleepsacks (without the swaddle) for when they get out of that swaddle phase. It's a safe way for your baby to 'wear' a blanket. 

4. Baby Einstein Take Along Tunes: The one toy that makes noise that doesn't drive you crazy! And it actually distracts my babe from whatever fit he was having, like getting strapped into the carseat. It's also the perfect size to throw in the diaper bag or keep in the car. We started using this around 3 or 4 months and are still loving it at 10+ months. That's a winner in my book! 

5. Baby Bjorn Original Carrier: I love the simplicity of this infant carrier. A baby carrier is kind of personal preference, but I definitely consider it an essential. These days I use it when we're shopping, going out to eat and I need my hands free to carry a tray/drink/etc, or just anytime I need my hands free. He is always perfectly content in the carrier and will even fall asleep in it!  

Affiliate links are used throughout this post. These posts are not sponsored and each blogger has selected their items based off personal preferences and experiences.

That's a wrap on the Baby Registry 101 Series! Hope you all enjoyed it!

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