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?Mamas & Mamas to Be: Weekly Check-in?
Hawaii Nestie Mommies
MauidAims - Kai Adam - 02.16.08
MrsNFB - Sean Patrick - 10.11.08
kauai_luv - Waianuhea - 04.04.09
kshiz - Ella Juliet - 04.04.09
VanceandLori - Brooke Jillian - 05.15.09
Mrs.HulaHunnie - Jaylee Emiko - 06.11.09
bigislandhi - Zoi - 06.29.09
Mrs.Ziz - Bella Kailani - 07.24.09
Hawaiian Honey - Matthew Sebron (Matty) - 08.07.09
MrsWinter - Ashton Christopher - 08.14.09
MyDay1708 - Alexa Leilani - 09.09.09
missaloha - Ellery Lin Ka'imilani- 09.13.09
MrsNJSwimmer - William (Billy) - 11.09.09
Trieulam - Kiptyn and Kylie - 11.12.09
MrsPresley - Annalise Rebecca - 11.12.09
HulaLove - Elyse Ann (Elle) - 12.14.09
Hawaii Nestie Due Dates
January 2010
01.30.10 - Girl ? Married2MrWright
February 2010
02.11.10 ? Girl ? Sanae78
02.14.10 ? Baby ? SirenSong
02.23.10 ? Baby ? Mauiwedding08
March 2010
03.18.10 ? Boy ? JaysgirlJulie
03.29.10 ? Baby ? Lola808
April 2010
04.26.10 ? Boy ? lisakeiko
May 2010
05.03.10 ? Twin Boys ? redshoegirl
05.11.10 ? Girl ? liubride510
05.16.10 ? Boy ? inamra
June 2010
06.16.10 ? Baby ? rwright5
July 2010
07.22.10 ?Baby ? RobynLee
07.25.10 ? Baby ? lelekay
September 2010
09.xx.10 ? Baby ? Vanilla15
Any additions to these lists? Post updated due dates or gender reports here, or send an email to njswimmer at hotmail.
(1) What week are you in/how old is your LO?
(2) How are you feeling? Any new milestones or news in the last week to share?
(3) Next appointment date? Any big ultrasounds/other exciting stuff coming up?
(4) What will you not be buying for your nursery (i.e., what do you think isn't really necessary - for example, some people swear by wipes warmers, others think they're a total waste of money)?
(5) Have you splurged on anything? If so, do you regret spending the money or was it worth every penny?
(6) Where did you/are you planning to cut costs for your nursery?
(7) For TTCers: Which cycle are you on? Where in the cycle are you? What, if anything, are you doing to have success TTCing? Is there a good website for a primer on TTC for those of us who don?t understand the code? J
(8) For mommies: Will you/are you bringing your baby/toddler to any classes? (i.e. baby yoga, music classes, toddler tumbling classes) Do you think these are beneficial to the baby, or more for the parents?
BONUS: PIP of your bump or LO or for TTCers...link to your chart!
Re: ?Mamas & Mamas to Be: Weekly Check-in?
(1) What week are you in/how old is your LO? 14 weeks today
(2) How are you feeling? Any new milestones or news in the last week to share? feeling fine. I started "showing"
(3) Next appointment date? Any big ultrasounds/other exciting stuff coming up? Jan. 26
(4) What will you not be buying for your nursery (i.e., what do you think isn't really necessary - for example, some people swear by wipes warmers, others think they're a total waste of money)? diaper genie
(5) Have you splurged on anything? If so, do you regret spending the money or was it worth every penny? not yet
(6) Where did you/are you planning to cut costs for your nursery? getting a convertable crib/changer combo
(1) What week are you in/how old is your LO?
38w4d
(2) How are you feeling? Any new milestones or news in the last week to share?
Feeling ready to get the baby here already. Counting the days. Now that I am on maternity leave I am loving just napping when I need to, putsing around, etc. I will admit there are swinging emotions of being super excited and then being anxious that we're not ready. I am sure it's normal. I have been reading up on my various books..."Womanly Art of Breastfeeding", "Baby Whisperer", and "No-Cry Sleep Solution."
(3) Next appointment date? Any big ultrasounds/other exciting stuff coming up?
One more non stress test tomorrow evening and then induction on Monday morning at 5 a.m. That is, unless Libby decides to come on her own between now and then.
(4) What will you not be buying for your nursery (i.e., what do you think isn't really necessary - for example, some people swear by wipes warmers, others think they're a total waste of money)?
No bouncy seat...no bedding set...no video monitor...no diaper genie/fancy diaper pail
(5) Have you splurged on anything? If so, do you regret spending the money or was it worth every penny?
We did splurge on the rug for our baby's room...I really wanted something of natural fiber and we got a cotton and silk rug. I didn't want acrylic or a synthetic blend.
Almost everything we've gotten has been second hand so I don't feel bad about the splurge.
Another splurge is getting a "first year" package from a local photographer...so we'll have a newborn session and then sessions at 3, 6, 9 and 12 months.
I do plan on also splurging on a Medela FreeStyle Pump...I know I can get a PISA for cheaper, but I really want the convenience of the FS.
(6) Where did you/are you planning to cut costs for your nursery?
See above. Almost everything...from clothes to furniture to gear has been acquired second-hand from consignment shops or Craigslist, etc. We did get a new crib and a new carseat for safety's sake. I've also DIYd alot and repurposed things for the nursery...like decor and furniture. And like with planning my wedding, I have really tried not to make emotionally based decisions with our money.
Oh and doing research and comparison shopping online. It's amazing how the pricing can vary from retailer to retailer. For example, our crib is listed in places for well over $500. We got it for just over $300.
(7) For TTCers: Which cycle are you on? Where in the cycle are you? What, if anything, are you doing to have success TTCing? Is there a good website for a primer on TTC for those of us who don?t understand the code? J
(8) For mommies: Will you/are you bringing your baby/toddler to any classes? (i.e. baby yoga, music classes, toddler tumbling classes) Do you think these are beneficial to the baby, or more for the parents?
BONUS: PIP of your bump or LO or for TTCers...link to your chart!
38 Week Bump!
TTC/PG Blog | Mommy Blog
(1) What week are you in/how old is your LO?
Elyse is 5 week this week. I can't believe she's a month already! The time has flown by, keeping this in mind I'm trying to cherish every moment.
Take a look at this lullaby on youtube It's a Big World. I love it!
(2) How are you feeling? Any new milestones or news in the last week to share?
I'm feeling great. I absolutely LOVE being a mom.
Russ was passing Elyse to me to feed her and she gave me a great big smile! She's done it a few more times since. I can't wait until she's smiling all the time.
(3) Next appointment date? Any big ultrasounds/other exciting stuff coming up?
I have my 6 week apt next Monday. I have to have a pap so I'm a bit anxious about that.
(4) What will you not be buying for your nursery (i.e., what do you think isn't really necessary - for example, some people swear by wipes warmers, others think they're a total waste of money)?
We said that we wouldn't buy a wipe warmer, but we got one as a gift and it made diaper changes (specially at night time) a million times better for us.
(5) Have you splurged on anything? If so, do you regret spending the money or was it worth every penny?
We splurged on our BOB revolution stroller. It has been worth every penny. It moves through the mall really easily and it boogies through the snow like nothing.
(6) Where did you/are you planning to cut costs for your nursery?
I'm not a big researcher or cost cutter. I really wish I was, but I just buy things as I see them. I love reading about the research you guys (specially Lori, Malia and Lisa) put into baby gear, as it's helped me alot with my purchasing decisions.
I just bought some decorations from Etsy (wall letters and butterflies for the wall). I also bought a 9 piece bedding set off of e-bay for $50, so think that's a pretty great deal!
(8) For mommies: Will you/are you bringing your baby/toddler to any classes? (i.e. baby yoga, music classes, toddler tumbling classes) Do you think these are beneficial to the baby, or more for the parents?
Yes, I will be going to baby and me classes. I'm starting a baby bootcamp in March and I'm planning to do baby sign language, story time at the library and some of the other baby classes. I think they're beneficial for both the baby and mom. I'm waiting until Elyse is older to take her to any of the classes, but I've been spending lots of time with friends with babies and it makes me feel fantastic. I feel like I have a fantastic support system of women/mothers who I can share my feelings/experiences with. Not that I can't with Russ, but it's a different kind of sharing with other mothers.
BONUS: PIP of your bump or LO or for TTCers...link to your chart!
Married Bio
(1) What week are you in/how old is your LO?
Brooke is 8 months!
(2) How are you feeling? Any new milestones or news in the last week to share?
Feeling good... no new milestones or news. IDK if I added this in the last week's check in, but we went to the doctor the day before Brooke turned 8 months and she weighed 22lbs 2oz! Nice and healthy
(3) Next appointment date? Any big ultrasounds/other exciting stuff coming up?
9 month check up
(4) What will you not be buying for your nursery (i.e., what do you think isn't really necessary - for example, some people swear by wipes warmers, others think they're a total waste of money)?
Umm... didn't buy wipes warmer. We personally didn't buy a LOT of stuff -- like the swing, bouncer, bottle warmer, bottle sterilizer, breast pump, pacifiers, changing table. We received a lot of it as gifts and we changed her on the ground (we still do). I'm glad we didn't buy a changing table because it would be HARD to change her on one now that she's so mobile!
(5) Have you splurged on anything? If so, do you regret spending the money or was it worth every penny?
We splurged on the diaper bag, which I regret. I rarely carry it and just put wipes/diapers/etc in my purse. My mom splurged on the stroller (Bugaboo Bee), which in my opinion, would have been worth every penny if we had to buy it ourselves.
(6) Where did you/are you planning to cut costs for your nursery?
We didn't do a lot of frilly, extra stuff to decorate. We plan to decorate it now that she's a little older ...
(7) For TTCers: Which cycle are you on? Where in the cycle are you? What, if anything, are you doing to have success TTCing? Is there a good website for a primer on TTC for those of us who don?t understand the code? J
(8) For mommies: Will you/are you bringing your baby/toddler to any classes? (i.e. baby yoga, music classes, toddler tumbling classes) Do you think these are beneficial to the baby, or more for the parents?
I haven't been to any. I think they can be benficial for both, but more for the parents. It will be good when the babies are a little older, for socialization and whatnot.
BONUS: PIP of your bump or LO or for TTCers...link to your chart!
Blog!
CLICK for blog
(2) How are you feeling? Any new milestones or news in the last week to share? Swollen. And like I got kicked in the crotch by a donkey lol. Otherwise, not bad!
(3) Next appointment date? Any big ultrasounds/other exciting stuff coming up? Ugh I don't even know...I have way too many freaking appointments...next regular checkup is Feb 1, but I'm having my gestational diabetes test on Jan 23. Wish me luck for that!
(4) What will you not be buying for your nursery (i.e., what do you think isn't really necessary - for example, some people swear by wipes warmers, others think they're a total waste of money)? We're skipping a lot of stuff...diaper genie, video monitor, bouncer...honestly, right now we're just trying to make sure they have somewhere to sleep, something to wear, and diapers to cover their butts - anything else is optional lol!
(5) Have you splurged on anything? If so, do you regret spending the money or was it worth every penny? Even though we got our stroller on sale (and didn't have to pay to get it shipped here yaaay!), it still wasn't exactly cheap. However, I don't think we'll regret it at all...when I read multiples forums and online reviews, there are a lot of complaints about other double strollers, but very few about the one we bought.
(6) Where did you/are you planning to cut costs for your nursery? Everywhere we can! I bargain hunt like crazy and do TONS of comparison shopping online. We're also trying to save money by DIYing some stuff that are inexpensive to make yourself but tend to have high markups through stores (like simple mobiles).
(1) What week are you in/how old is your LO? 13 weeks, 4 days
(2) How are you feeling? Any new milestones or news in the last week to share? Okay, actually! Tired, as I have a busy week at work. But I got a new body pillow this week that has been a miracle for my sore lower back and hips.
(3) Next appointment date? Any big ultrasounds/other exciting stuff coming up? We just had our nuchal translucency ultrasound last Friday, and it went very well (yay!) It was awesome getting to see him/her (though I'm already thinking of it as "her"....we'll see if I'm right!) move around and wave its arms at us. My next appt. isn't for two more weeks.
(4) What will you not be buying for your nursery (i.e., what do you think isn't really necessary - for example, some people swear by wipes warmers, others think they're a total waste of money)? Honestly, I don't know yet. Right now we're shopping for furniture, mainly a crib/changer combo, a dresser with a hutch, and a glider rocker. once we get those things settled and ordered, I can start thinking about other things!
(5) Have you splurged on anything? If so, do you regret spending the money or was it worth every penny? Nothing really yet (except my new body pillow, which was a whopping $75, but worth every penny, as I'm already sleeping much better), but we probably will on the stroller. Both MH and I fell in love with the Uppababy when we were looking at them a few weeks ago. We'll see if we end up splurging on it or not. We also went to look at a daycare center last week, and I guess that'll probably be our biggest spluge of all, if you can count that, since the closest/nicest one is also the most expensive one in the area, and we both loved it there.
(6) Where did you/are you planning to cut costs for your nursery? We want a combination crib/changer, which will fit really well into the room, and I think that'll save a little. I haven't done much research beyond furniture yet (I'm trying not to overwhelm myself, so I'm only focusing on one aspect at a time so far!)
(1) What week are you in/how old is your LO? LO is 10 weeks, 3 days old
(2) How are you feeling? Any new milestones or news in the last week to share? I'm still in pain from my cysts. LO got shots last week and was diagnosed with reflux
We're on Zantac. Just upped the dose with the dr visit yesterday. We go back again next week for another checkup to see if we need to change the meds.
(3) Next appointment date? Any big ultrasounds/other exciting stuff coming up? We go back again next week for another checkup to see if we need to change the meds.
(4) What will you not be buying for your nursery (i.e., what do you think isn't really necessary - for example, some people swear by wipes warmers, others think they're a total waste of money)? I didn't get the wiper warmer or any of the bedding sets - you arne't supposed to use the bumpers or blankets, and the diaper things are a waste of money to me.
(5) Have you splurged on anything? If so, do you regret spending the money or was it worth every penny? The crib b/c it's convertible and extremely sturdy, and the dresser b/c it's both a dresser and changer, but when we're done using it as a changing table, it can be flipped over and it's still a dresser.
(6) Where did you/are you planning to cut costs for your nursery? We lived by Baby Bargains. We bought middle of the road stuff that was safest and most useful. Don't bother registering for clothes or buying them yourself. I only started buying clothes recently because he needed more sleepers. People will buy you lots of clothes!
(8) For mommies: Will you/are you bringing your baby/toddler to any classes? (i.e. baby yoga, music classes, toddler tumbling classes) Do you think these are beneficial to the baby, or more for the parents? I would like to try them when he's a little older. I think music classes are beneficial, but I haven't thought much about anything else.
BONUS: PIP of your bump or LO or for TTCers...link to your chart! pictures in the blog...
(1) What week are you in/how old is your LO?
8 weeks yesterday
(2) How are you feeling? Any new milestones or news in the last week to share?
struggling with frequent nausea & the occasional pukey smurf
(3) Next appointment date? Any big ultrasounds/other exciting stuff coming up?
1st dr's appt - Feb 4
(4) What will you not be buying for your nursery (i.e., what do you think isn't really necessary - for example, some people swear by wipes warmers, others think they're a total waste of money)?
I'm not sure...we haven't talked about any of the nursery items yet. The idea of no changing table & just changing on the floor is a good idea...I hadn't thought of that.
(5) Have you splurged on anything? If so, do you regret spending the money or was it worth every penny?
nothing yet - but I am sure I'll find something!
(6) Where did you/are you planning to cut costs for your nursery?
we probably won't decorate a whole lot until baby is a little older, and I don't see us buying any diaper genie or anything like that. I am not sure - I am interested to hear what mom's think was a waste.
(1) What week are you in/how old is your LO? 35w2d
(2) How are you feeling? Any new milestones or news in the last week to share? feeling pretty good. I have recently been getting numb fingers in my right hand (pg carpal tunnel). That isn't too fun. We are really enjoying birth class.
(3) Next appointment date? Any big ultrasounds/other exciting stuff coming up? one ultrasound @ 19 weeks, no others planned. 36 appt next week - nothing big going on at that. They ask for the GBS test, actually they told me that I swab myself - that should be interesting. No internals for me, and they won't even be tempted to ask since it sounds like I don't even have to get naked for them
we are also going over my birth plan like they keep requesting.
(4) What will you not be buying for your nursery (i.e., what do you think isn't really necessary - for example, some people swear by wipes warmers, others think they're a total waste of money)? lots of things - wipe warmer, diaper genie, expensive dresser, glider, changing table. All our newborn clothes can be reused b/c they are all GN. Not doing an infant car seat (or travel system).
(5) Have you splurged on anything? If so, do you regret spending the money or was it worth every penny? we haven't bought anything ourselves. Except my Kate Spade diaper bag. I would say my biggest splurge was nice maternity clothes. I'm not sure how much I spent total, it was kind of a lot, but worth it. I'm glad I feel good about the way I look and that wouldn't be possible without nice jeans and other cute clothes. I still think I dress pretty cute at work and casual even at 36ish weeks. I love the gap stuff and even found a few cute dressier options at Motherhood.
(6) Where did you/are you planning to cut costs for your nursery? I didn't buy a nice dresser (refurbed one I found on CL for $25). I didn't buy a glider after a lot of consideration. My ILs gave us money for a crib based on what SIL spent and we were able to get a crib, a nice foam mattress, and a few other things with that money. I eyed a Land of Nod crib and could have bought it with the $ they gave us, but ultimately decided on cheaper options.
(8) For mommies: Will you/are you bringing your baby/toddler to any classes? (i.e. baby yoga, music classes, toddler tumbling classes) Do you think these are beneficial to the baby, or more for the parents? we have a post partum support group (that I have heard awesome things about) that meets weekly, it's basically just an informal gtg - and then my prenatal yoga instructor does a mom and me yoga right after. It's less than a mile from my house - I'm looking forward to that.(2) How are you feeling? Any new milestones or news in the last week to share? Good. Trying to be more conscious of my diet because I haven't gained weight recently -- my belly is growing well, though, so the doc just said to eat more frequently since I'm still pretty active. I'm also trying to slow down a little at work because I had a really scary dizzy spell and nearly passed out (prob. low BP). We're also doing a lot of work on the nursery, which is really fun!
(3) Next appointment date? Any big ultrasounds/other exciting stuff coming up? 2 weeks -- we'll get to see the baby for the first time in over 12 weeks!!!
(4) What will you not be buying for your nursery (i.e., what do you think isn't really necessary - for example, some people swear by wipes warmers, others think they're a total waste of money)? Like others have said -- no wipes warmer, no diaper genie, no bedding sets or matchy-matchy decor, no video monitor, no fancy glider. I'm not buying toys because people will undoubtedly give us a ton, and I wouldn't have bought a bassinet, but our friends gave us one.
(5) Have you splurged on anything? If so, do you regret spending the money or was it worth every penny? No giant splurges. Just buying the essentials is $$$! We also went by Baby Bargains to find good buys. I consider the hundreds of dollars (each) we're spending on the crib, stroller, breast pump, and convertible car seat to be well worth it though.
(6) Where did you/are you planning to cut costs for your nursery? We're DIY. We just painted the walls and DH is now installing the new blinds and the ceiling fan. Most of our furniture is recycled (dresser, shelves, rocker) and we're refinishing them.
The only piece of furniture we're buying is the crib. Most of the decor comes from bargain shops like Ross, where I found great nursery wall art for just a few bucks and an entire set of cute storage baskets for under $20. I also LOVED Lori's DIY name for the wall and I plan to do that once we know our baby's gender!
We also remind ourselves that the purpose of the nursery is not for US or for impressing our friends, but for the safety and happiness of our child. That helps us stay sane about what we need and what is an unnecessary expense.
(1) What week are you in/how old is your LO?
37 weeks today - full term! Woohoo!
(2) How are you feeling? Any new milestones or news in the last week to share?
Feeling ready for this baby to be out! It's getting harder to move around, bend over to pick things up or put on my pants, etc. Even reaching for the radio in my car is a chore!
Went to the dr yesterday and no further progress since last week. Boo! But I know it doesn't really matter and she's gonna come when she wants anyways. Just hoping it's sooner than later. Oh, and GBS was neg. Yay.
(3) Next appointment date? Any big ultrasounds/other exciting stuff coming up?
Next Wed.
(4) What will you not be buying for your nursery (i.e., what do you think isn't really necessary - for example, some people swear by wipes warmers, others think they're a total waste of money)?
No wipe warmer, no diaper genie since we're gonna CD.
(5) Have you splurged on anything? If so, do you regret spending the money or was it worth every penny?
We splurged on our recliner glider. I don't regret it but we'll see if we end up using it as much as we hope. The nice thing about it is that it just looks like a nice upholstered chair that we can put in our living room at some point.
(6) Where did you/are you planning to cut costs for your nursery?
Hmm...we didn't spend a ton on the crib and dresser/changer. We went with a Consumer Reports best buy and the crib is convertible so hopefully it will last a long time.
Otherwise, I'm kinda bad a cost cutting. If I want something, I'll get it. I mean, nothing too extravagant or anything. I did find a bedding set that I LOOOOOVED, but it was pricey so I went with another one that I also loved (but slightly less) because it was on sale and much cheaper.
19w1d
(2) How are you feeling? Any new milestones or news in the last week to share?
The last few days my back has been hurting again I guess it is my uterus growing again ouch:( I am starving all the time now I guess that is another sign that the baby and my uterus is growing. I finally started back to the gym this week also...it really feels good to actually do something.
(3) Next appointment date? Any big ultrasounds/other exciting stuff coming up?
The "BIG" u/s is next Tuesday. whoo hoo FINALLY!!!
(4) What will you not be buying for your nursery (i.e., what do you think isn't really necessary - for example, some people swear by wipes warmers, others think they're a total waste of money)?
I don't we will do the wipes warmer or diaper genie either b/c most of my IRL friends say they are a waste. Other than that I don't know yet but my cousin told me this week that when her baby outgrowns some stuff she is sending me her swing, bouncer, play mat and anything else he outgrows by the time our baby comes so that is great by me.
(5) Have you splurged on anything? If so, do you regret spending the money or was it worth every penny?
Not yet but it will probably be either a stroller or a crib. I am really liking the uppababy vista but we shall see. I really want a good stroller b/c we live out in the country and our driveway is a 1/4 mile long and gravel and I want to be able to take the baby out for walks.
(6) Where did you/are you planning to cut costs for your nursery?
We are getting a few things given to us and when we will try to buy others 2nd hand. I also plan to use the baby bargins book to find great deals on the thing I can't find used
(1) What week are you in/how old is your LO? Jaylee is 7 months and some shange
(2) How are you feeling? Any new milestones or news in the last week to share? Feeling SOO much better.. Jaylee is doing great too crawling everywhere, and pulling herself up and "walking" along the crib
(3) Next appointment date? Any big ultrasounds/other exciting stuff coming up? Jaylee has a pedi appointment next week for her follow up H1N1, and I have my OB appt on Feb. 3rd
(4) What will you not be buying for your nursery (i.e., what do you think isn't really necessary - for example, some people swear by wipes warmers, others think they're a total waste of money)? We didn't buy wipes warmers, or a pump at first (i got it as a gift later when I was sure that my milk supply was efficent), we did buy a changing table and dresser for ALL her clothes. So glad that we did.
(5) Have you splurged on anything? If so, do you regret spending the money or was it worth every penny? the only thing we really splerged on was her travel system. my pump, crib, pnp, swing, bouncy chair, glider, were all gifts from friends/family and we are sooo thankful for it all.
(6) Where did you/are you planning to cut costs for your nursery? I don't think we really cut costs here, but since Jaylee was the first grandchild on both sides (and great grandchild on myside) my family went and bought everything for her.
(8) For mommies: Will you/are you bringing your baby/toddler to any classes? (i.e. baby yoga, music classes, toddler tumbling classes) Do you think these are beneficial to the baby, or more for the parents?
I would love to bring Jaylee to some classes but there isn't any on Maui. I think it is a great way to get parent to socialize and for baby to have a group of friends.
Alexa is 19 weeks (4+ months!) (2) How are you feeling? Any new milestones or news in the last week to share?
Alexa continues to ROLL ROLL ROLL! And she is laughing more, which cracks me up and in turn makes her laugh more! Love it! (3) Next appointment date? Any big ultrasounds/other exciting stuff coming up?
6 month appointment is in March. Coming up: I go back to work Feb 24, Alexa will try out her daycare!
(4) What will you not be buying for your nursery (i.e., what do you think isn't really necessary - for example, some people swear by wipes warmers, others think they're a total waste of money)? We did NOT get wipe warmers and have not missed them. Alexa does not cry during diaper changes. We did NOT get a bedding set. Instead, I got a custom crib skirt in Amy Butler fabric from an Etsy seller, a quilt that matches, several toys and other things that match and sheets in neutral color. We did NOT get a pretty nursery lamp. We DID get a diaper changing pad to put on top of a dresser that we already owned and it's been great, we use it all the time for changing, dressing, massage, everything. My back would not be good on the floor! We also got TWO diaper genies, one for upstairs and one for downstairs! (5) Have you splurged on anything? If so, do you regret spending the money or was it worth every penny?Splurged on a Kate Spade diaper bag (my bday present from DH) and I use it every day! I wouldn't say we "splurged" but we did spent a lot on the video monitor (Infant Summer) and pump (Medela Freestyle) but they were necessary expenses and both are being used DAILY. I could not live without the video monitor, especially since she's on her tummy now. I clip it to my bed at night and take it downstairs when she naps in her crib. It lets me see if she is fussing and settling down again or if I need to go up. I can also see if she is breathing, where the paci is, what she's doing, etc.Our crib (Munire urban), car seat (Peg Perego), rocker-recliner (Best Chairs) were all $$$ but they were gifts. And all were worth it!!(6) Where did you/are you planning to cut costs for your nursery?I try to buy things on sale or use 20% off coupons at Buy Buy Baby. I return some gifts that we don't need and accept any hand-me-downs! And I have got some great deals a consignment store near my house! (Starting today, everything in the store is 50% off and outerwear is 75% off! So I just got a stack of clothes for daycare for $50!) (8) For mommies: Will you/are you bringing your baby/toddler to any classes? (i.e. baby yoga, music classes, toddler tumbling classes) Do you think these are beneficial to the baby, or more for the parents?
OH YES.... We go to several.
We go to an Infant Music class on Mondays (offered at the JCC). Alexa loves it because she is old enough to enjoy the singing and clapping. She is all smiles! Plus, I get to learn new songs and re-learn old classics, which we then practice at home. It's been great! (Then us moms have lunch after)
We just started today going to an Itsy Bitsy yoga class on Thursdays (offered thru the county rec dept for cheap, about $9/class for 6 classes)... It didn't impress me. I do all the things we did in class with Alexa already. But it's fun for her. It's 45 mins long and focused on the baby, not mom yoga. (Then us moms go out to lunch after while the babies nap!)
We have gone to two Mommy-Baby yoga classes (at a regular yoga studio) and those were GREAT! Yoga for both babies and mommies. The classes are every Tuesday and Friday at noon and you can drop in, so we go when we have a free day. Cost is $18/class tho. (Then us mommies then go out for lunch after.)
We also try to go to Library story times, which are FREE and feature a lot of singing and dancing!
In Nov-Dec, we did a PACE group which is limited to 10 moms and led by social workers who bring up a new topic each week. It's a way to meet other moms in the area with babies the same age. The session has 8 classes. It was definitely for us moms but it helps the babies because we talk about everything from sleeping to feeding and pooping and anything you can imagine. We have all stayed in touch and get together frequently (4 of us are in the Itsy Bitsy yoga class).
We also take classes at the Breastfeeding Center. I took a "Baby Wearing" class where we learned how to use all the different kinds of slings... That's when I got the Moby! Next week we are taking a "Back to Work & Pumping" class and also a "Baby's 1st Solids" class. Those are obviously classes for me, but they benefit the baby!
Finally -- We just started going to Stroller Striders to get back into shape! Surprisingly, it's a freakin' GREAT workout! I think Alexa likes it b/c we sing songs to the babies while working out and push the strollers a lot. But it's a class for ME! (Then we moms shop or get coffee after)
Malia & Dave & Alexa
Happily married since 2-17-08! Three since 9-9-09!
Baby Blog
This is SUCH a good point, and something I remind myself of all the time, too! It's sooooo easy to get sucked in, especially when you see all of the gorgeous nurseries on the Bump...but really, a baby just needs a safe place to sleep, clothes to keep warm, something to catch their poo and milk to eat. Anything else is just gravy.
(1) What week are you in/how old is your LO?
she's 10 weeks 1 day
(2) How are you feeling? Any new milestones or news in the last week to share?
I'm feeling good! little A slept 8 straight hours last night!!! EIGHT!!! she was up all day and super tired last night so I am sure it's not going to continue but for the first time since giving birth, I felt like my pre-baby self
otherwise she is still STTN 5-6 hrs/night... we had a few bad nights this last week where she'd only sleep in 2 hr stretches overnight, but i think she was just going through a growth spurt or something.
she has discovered that she has two hands... she will often hold her hands together now, esp while nursing. it's cute. she has also started enjoying staring at the toys on her activity mat now, though she is not grasping for them yet.
she also continues to babble like crazy!!! she even tries to "talk" while she is nursing...both on and off the boob!!
(3) Next appointment date? Any big ultrasounds/other exciting stuff coming up?
not until she is 4 months old - booster vaccines
i developed some kind of cyst right next to my urethral opening during my pregnancy (my ob thinks it was from all the hormonal changes) - it has shrunk down in size significantly since giving birth but is still there. if it doesn't go down completely in the next month, my ob will be referring me to a urologist. thankfully, it isn't painful and does not cause me any problems.
(4) What will you not be buying for your nursery (i.e., what do you think isn't really necessary - for example, some people swear by wipes warmers, others think they're a total waste of money)?
no wipe warmers - no disposable wipes even - we use cloth and our "wipes solution" is good old fashioned water.
no diaper pail - we use a regular kitchen trash can
no changing table - we bought a dresser w/hutch off craigslist ($150) that we're using as a changing table that can be used as a regular dresser when she is older. it's great b/c we store all her clothes, blankets, etc in there too. i wouldn't want to change her on the floor, but i have changed her on the bed or couch (just layed a cloth down under her) and it worked just fine too.
(5) Have you splurged on anything? If so, do you regret spending the money or was it worth every penny?
i suppose my biggest splurge has been the maya wrap - I got it for about $45 at a baby boutique that was going out of business and while that's not a lot of $$$ in general, i feel it's a lot of $$ for just a piece of fabric and rings. I am still trying to get A used to it so I still hope to get more use out of it, but so far I don't regret the purchase.(6) Where did you/are you planning to cut costs for your nursery?
at first i wanted a really cute diaper bag but i'm glad that i didn't splurge on one. i got a cheap but super functional one from land's end (based on recommendations in baby bargains) and it has worked out great for us
I also wanted to splurge on a rocker/glider for the nursery but i'm glad we got a used Pottery Barn rocker and ottoman from craigslist b/c I have found that I prefer to nurse in the laying/reclining position best so I don't use the rocker much anymore. that said - it was probably the best bargain we got - we paid $150 and it's over $1100 new for the set!
I don't really feel like we have splurged on much b/c we've been pretty good about finding deals and buying secondhand on craigslist, ebay, and at consignment sales. we used baby bargains a lot to figure out what we wanted and then bargain hunted. we didn't get a top end car seat but didn't get the cheapest either (we got the chicco keyfit 30) but was able to get it for about $120, not much more than the graco infant seats that have front adjusting harnesses. so far i like it a lot, though it is a bit heavy (which is why i'm glad i have a maya wrap). whether babies like a bouncer or swing varies greatly, so i knew i didn't want to pay a lot for those - got a bouncer new in pkg off CL at a discount and got a swing for 60% off secondhand off CL. i'm really glad we didn't buy them new b/c A doesn't love either one of them. the bouncer is handy to set her down in and she likes her swing but she doesn't love either like some babies do (maybe that will change as she gets older, she already likes the swing more now than she did when she was younger)
(7) For TTCers: Which cycle are you on? Where in the cycle are you? What, if anything, are you doing to have success TTCing? Is there a good website for a primer on TTC for those of us who don?t understand the code? J
(8) For mommies: Will you/are you bringing your baby/toddler to any classes? (i.e. baby yoga, music classes, toddler tumbling classes) Do you think these are beneficial to the baby, or more for the parents?
maybe when she's a little older
BONUS: PIP of your bump or LO or for TTCers...link to your chart!Jaime & Brent
Oahu, Hawaii | Sept. 9, 2005
My Food Blog - Good Eats 'n Sweet Treats
(1) What week are you in/how old is your LO?
37 weeks tomorrow. Maya is 2 years, 5 mths.
(2) How are you feeling? Any new milestones or news in the last week to share?
Physically I'm ready to have this baby. However, I still have one more wedding to wrap up (the editing of the photos of it) and a couple more little loose ends to tie up (little last minute things for the baby).
(3) Next appointment date? Any big ultrasounds/other exciting stuff coming up?
Appointments have gone to a weekly thing now so, have another one this Wednesday.
I saw an OB last time (instead of the midwives) and, being doctor-minded, he wanted to do an U/S to make sure where the baby was positioned (he felt the baby headdown but he wanted to be 100%). I, of course, wasn't complaining though.
I did a little internal eye-roll though because I saw the big difference between a midwife's mindset (relaxed and if a problem arises, we'll be right on it) as opposed to an OB mindset (looking for all the things that can go wrong). He spent some time explaining what can go wrong and ordering tests etc because of my heart-shaped uterus.
Whereas, the midwives (now and when I was pregnant with Maya) were not worried and therefore I didn't worry about it.
(4) What will you not be buying for your nursery (i.e., what do you think isn't really necessary - for example, some people swear by wipes warmers, others think they're a total waste of money)?
Other than hiring a baby hammock for the baby to sleep in for the first 3-4 mths, everything else is a hand-me-down from Maya.
The wipes warmer I didn't waste my money on...or the diaper genie. I used make-up remover wipes and water to wipe Maya's tushie and, if I wanted them to be warm, I dipped them into a mug (obviously one we don't use for drinking out of lol) of warm water.
(5) Have you splurged on anything? If so, do you regret spending the money or was it worth every penny?
We bought a second hand Baby Jogger City Elite double stroller off Ebay for $620 or so.
We need to lube the wheels up a little as they are a tad stiff (WD-40 should do the trick) and I need to wipe it down but other than that, it's good.
I'm a little nervous about getting around with it on public transport though as it IS wider than my normal stroller. I took it to the supermarket to see how it went down the aisles/checkout and found that, yeah, I will have to use the wider-sized checkouts. It won't fit in the other checkouts by like a couple of cm's. Lisa, not sure what your supermarket is like though, your stroller might be fine in all of their checkouts.
(6) Where did you/are you planning to cut costs for your nursery?
As above. Everything is a Maya-hand-me-down. I will get a couple of new blankets etc though.
(8) For mommies: Will you/are you bringing your baby/toddler to any classes? (i.e. baby yoga, music classes, toddler tumbling classes) Do you think these are beneficial to the baby, or more for the parents?
Maybe. Maya and I did a Gymbaroo class (I think the classes are called Gymbaree in the US?) which was good but we only went once. I've signed up for a Mainly Music class down the street from where I live for Maya. I can always put the bub in the baby carrier and dance and sing around with Maya.
BONUS: PIP of your bump or LO or for TTCers...link to your chart!