MommyCon Newport Beach 2014

As someone who is active in no less than half a dozen mommy groups, most of which are focused around the more mainstream crunchy aspects of parenting, like babywearing, breastfeeding, cloth diapering and natural products, MommyCon Newport Beach was like walking into a room where my Mommy Facebook groups came to life. Actually, the moment I got out of my car, Baby Buckshot and I ran into two mamas from Socal Babywearers that I instantly recognized. Instead of Caw-Cawing (the official call of one SoCal Babywearer to another), however, I went ahead and introduced myself. And much of the rest of MommyCon was like that. Running into mamas I knew from my groups or talking to mamas who were in my groups but I had never talked to before. I had found my tribe!

Here are some highlights, as I didn't make it to MommyCon in time for anything before 11am, I missed Babywearing Yoga AND Babywearing 101!

Sleep Consultations with Rebecca Michi
Rebecca Michi is a published author and authority on children's sleep from 0-6 years old. Specializing in gentle sleep methods, her book combines a number of different sleep methods, giving the reader options best suited for each child instead of a one size fits all sleep recommendation. The sleep consultation sessions at MommyCon were by appointment only as she booked 6 moms for each 30 minute session, addressing each of our issues in 5 minutes. Obviously, 5 minutes is nothing in terms of an in depth sleep evaluation but here are some of her tips:

If baby is having a hard time transitioning or staying asleep in a crib or pack-n-play, it is possibly the mattress or a comfort issue. Many times, crib mattresses are not as soft or cushioned as the parent's bed so changing to a softer mattress might help. She also explained that pack-n-plays are not really made for sleeping so they are not very comfortable for babies. She recommended MamaDoo Mattress Topper for parents who want to continue using the pack-n-play in lieu of a crib or co-sleeping. 

As babies transition through sleep phases, reducing from multiple naps down to 1 or 2 a day, she explained that to keep babies sleep schedules on track, it is both helpful and not detrimental, to wake a sleeping baby. Shortening, specifically, the second nap of the day, to a 15-30 minute nap can help baby get on track for a sleep schedule.

My problem, of BB not staying asleep for longer than 2-3 hours at a time at night, and needing to nurse back to sleep was addressed in depth, lucky for me! Against everything I have read about babies BB's age, Rebecca noted that many babies still do wake from hunger and that this frequency of awaking is completely normal. However, BB is using nursing as a sleep crutch so it would be important to teach him to put himself back to sleep.

She recommended that, while I can continue to nurse him at the beginning of the night and for a middle of the night feed, the lights should be dimly on to communicate that nursing is awake time. Then for the other night wakings, to sooth him to sleep without nursing. In her experience, it only takes 3 nights for a new sleep habit to be learned making a long weekend the perfect time to teach a new sleep lesson.

Swag  Bags

There were so many vendors giving away such great stuff at this event. The best two items were Kinde Twist Starter Kits and with my Project: Breastfeeding add-on, Beco Soliel baby carriers!

WeanGreen gave away Glass baby food containers, a Mam bottle, a Zen Rock teething necklace and a Diono Screenshade were included in the swag bags from Cottonbabies as well as lots of coupons. The swag included for the attendees more than covered the cost of a ticket. Score!

In the breastfeeding lounge, there were also complimentary Milkin' Cookies and water for all the mamas. And those cookies were SO good. 


Tackling Toddler Trickiness with Dr. Alan Greene
Dr. Alan Greene, author of Feeding Baby Green: The Earth Friendly Program for Healthy, Safe Nutrition During Pregnancy, Childhood, and Beyond and Raising Baby Green: The Earth-Friendly Guide to Pregnancy, Childbirth, and Baby Care, spoke on the topic of why toddlers becoming picky about food and how to address is. Here are some of the more interesting points:

• Toddlers are wired to reject foods that are in the slightest bit bitter or sour as a survival mechanism. In nature, typically when something is bitter or sour, it is a warning that it is not safe to eat. 
• Familiarity will cause a child to enjoy a food. Repeated offerings of one bite in 7-12 different instances from a trusted source, like mommy, daddy or other regular caregiver, gives baby the exposure and understanding that a food is both safe and eventually enjoyable. 
• Pregnant women who eat something, like carrots, at least 12 times during pregnancy, are likely to have children that immediately like that food item when first trying it. In utero, baby has more tastebuds than any other time in life, so baby can remember the flavor from the womb and in turn already registers it as familiar when having first solids. 
• Heroes endorsing foods make children more likely to eat them. For instance, a container of cherry tomatoes, with a sticker of Elmo on it, may result in a child being more willing to try and like the tomatoes. 
• Early exposure to real food textures in various forms is important. It was found that because children were more exposed to tomato purees, they liked the flavor of tomatoes but often rejected fresh tomatoes because they were only used to the tomatoes in pureed form and didn't like the fresh texture.
• Growing vegetables from a seed makes a child much more likely to love that vegetable. Getting a child involved in the harvesting, picking or preparation of a vegetable, exponentially increases the likelihood that they will enjoy the food. 
• If a toddler is having a hard time even trying one bite of a new food, mix the item with flavors they already find familiar and enjoy. For instance, if the child enjoys marinara sauce but is rejecting broccoli, cover the broccoli with marinara sauce.
• Toddlers like to refuse things they are given but offering limited options, like asking them if they would like an apple or a banana, gives them the illusion of control making them less likely to protest what they are being given to eat.

Dr. Jay Gordon and Jaime Lynne Grumet
When I first saw Jaime Lynne Grumet, at MommyCon, she was wearing this gorgeous  puffy skirted dress and a very high heels with her hair and make-up done to a tee. I couldn't believe that she was a mom, and if she was, she must have been a model/celebrity. Little did I know, she's actually one of the most famous moms from the cover of Time Magazine.

She, the accidental face of Attachment Parenting mothers everywhere, along with Dr. Jay Gordon, spoke on a number of AP topics from how much protein do kids need (answer: don't worry about protein, feed them more vegetables), extended breastfeeding and answered much of the audience's questions.

Project: Breastfeeding
A lot of moms hire a professional photographer to commemorate their breastfeeding days. I considered that but when the Project: Breastfeeding add-on ticket went live, I immediately jumped at the chance. Get my breastfeeding picture taken by a famous photographer while also helping to destigmatize breastfeeding? That's a win-win.

Hector was simply amazing to work with, infinitely patient as Baby Buckshot all of sudden was more interested in playing than nursing (the children's play area was right next to the Project: Breastfeeding area.) We had to come back a few times before BB settled down and started to nurse while I was sitting on the chair. By that time, I was a tired mess and BB would only settle in one position. For a minute, I felt really self conscious and put a fake smile on and was disappointed that my picture probably wouldn't turn out very pretty. But, given my 13 months of breastfeeding, me being a tired mess catering to BB in whatever fashion I could take care his needs, is probably the most honest picture of our journey.

It was also a pleasure hearing about Hector's experience with the project. From taking a picture of a mom's last time breastfeeding her child, to capturing some moms breastfeeding babies multiple times, first nursing little squish babies and now as toddlers. I cannot express how much I love this project and look forward to seeing my less than perfect but actually quite accurate picture.

Babywearing Lounge
This was the mecca of babywearing. From various wraps to soft structured carriers of all ergonomic makers, the babywearing educators and representatives from Beco and Ergo provided a very comprehensive picture of what today's babywearing world has to offer. Yes, that is Jamie Grayson, aka theBabyGuyNYC, in the center. I did not realize it was him when I was trying to get a panoramic picture. Looking back, he probably thought I was being a creeper taking his picture and not asking first!  Ooops! Sorry Jamie!

I also have to note that this event is just babywearing heaven. The Tula Wrap Conversions and gorgeous woven wraps all the mamas were wearing their babies in was better than a fashion show. ETLA, Meeyoo, Pavos, Giras abound. It was a real life Stash Shot Saturday!

MommyCon was a great experience! Highly recommended for expectant mothers or those who have children toddler age or younger.

Baby Camping Gear

Every year, for the Hosh's birthday, we go camping.  I should explain, that we actually go glamping which generally means a ton of gear.  I worried, this year, that we wouldn't have space for all of Baby Buckshot's camping gear along with ours.  Turns out, with a few key purchases and a suitcase filled with his everyday necessities, babies don't need that much camping gear.  These are the items that really came in handy during our camping trip:

1. Cozy Cub Baby Bunting Snowsuit in Fleece. Since baby sleeping bags are a no due to suffocation risk, a snowsuit was my next best option. I found it best that it was hooded and had enclosed feet and hands too instead of trying to struggle with keeping a hat, socks and mittens on BB at any given time. On sale for $34.95 - One Step Ahead.

2. Britax B-Nimble Stroller. A lot of people suggested getting a camping high chair for BB but if he's anything like me, he's likely a little clumsy and prone to falling out of camping chairs (yes, this has happened to me) and I opted for a stroller instead. I figured, as long as he can sit in it and it is able to recline for potential nap times, it would be even better than a camping high chair. The B-Nimble folds down to about the size of a camp chair, has the functionality of a full stroller with the ease of an umbrella stroller. $89 - Amazon.com.

3. Inglesina Fast Table Chair. The other option I bought instead of a camping high chair was this table chair.  It attaches to just about any table (including those with a lip), folds up small enough to put in a large diaper bag and allows baby to sit right at the picnic table with the rest of the diners. This chair is a dream at restaurants and came in very handy at the campsite.  It doesn't touch the ground either, which made post camping clean-up of this seat non-existent. $59 - Amazon.com.

4. Beco Gemini Baby Carrier. A baby carrier is a MUST during camping.  Between hiking, camp work and just needing to keep baby close, I don't think I could have done it without a carrier.  I like the Beco Gemini (I will do a review in the future) and feel that a canvas soft structured carrier that is easy to clean is the best option for camping, especially if someone else is going to try carrying baby also.  Like dad, who might not want to wear a girly pattern while out in the great outdoors.  Prettier woven wraps may get snagged while roughing it also and canvas is oh so durable. $130 - Amazon.com.

5. N'ice Caps Boys Sherpa Lined Micro Fleece Hat and Mitten Set with Ears. We were camping in the cold weather (it actually rained the first night) so having a fleece hat that velcroed in place under BB's chin was very helpful in keeping his hat in place. The mittens were also perfect for keeping his hands warm as the nights got colder before I would put him in his snowsuit.  In the summer, obviously this wouldn't be necessary, but a sunblocking hat would be. $11.99 - Amazon.com.

6. Babyganics Mineral-Based Sunscreen SPF 50 Spray 6 oz + Natural Insect Repellent. I like Babyganics for sunscreen regularly but didn't need DEET free insect spray until this camping trip.  Luckily, because the weather was wet and cold, there weren't many bugs but a summer camping trip would definitely warrant some insect repellent. Both sprays are very easy to apply and are fairly chemical free.  There are better options out there than this but they aren't readily available (Babyganics can be found at Babies R Us) and possibly not as effective. $16.99 - Amazon.com.

I nursed BB all weekend so I didn't need it, but I also bought sterilizing wipes for bottles and pumps.  I made pretty specific clothing choices for Baby Buckshot too, which I might write about later in a camping clothing guide.

What other gear is there that would help make camping with a baby easier?

Citrus Lane Box Review

You know what feels like Christmas once a month?  Subscription boxes.  In all fairness, it's not really like Christmas because the boxes aren't a gift so I guess it's a little bit more like a personal shopper.

I have tried out beauty subscription boxes and know from experience not all boxes are worth their subscription value.  The first company I chose to try for baby boxes was Citrus Lane.  I got my first box in February for 5 month old Baby Buckshot and this is what came inside:

Tea Collection Bodysuit 6-12 Month: $19 retail value with a $25 off coupon for a purchase on the Tea Collection Website.

Boon Silicone Feeder: $7.49 retail value.

Juice Beauty Age Defying Apple Hand Cream: $12 retail value.

Clare Beaton's Bedtime Rhymes: $6.49 retail value.

I really like the contents of this box except for the Juice Beauty item.  Nothing against Juice Beauty, I like their products, and many of baby related boxes include an item for mom. I would just prefer all the items to be for baby because I already have a beauty box subscription.  Moms who only subscribe to one box each month might like that there is something included for them.

Citrus Lane boxes cost $29 per month, lower if you commit to buying for multiple months.  February 2014's box was a $45 retail value (plus a $25 coupon) for $29 a box.  First time subscribers are able to buy their first box for $15 if using a referral link. Mine is here if you're interested.

I get a little something if you sign up using my link too so thanks in advance if you use it!

How To Pick a High Chair

I have been searching for a high chair since Baby Buckshot was just a few months old.  I've gone between wanting something that just attaches to an existing dining chair or to the side of the table to wanting a full blown all features high chair.

What am I going to do with a high chair?
-Put food in the snack tray so BB can eat snacks wherever I need him to be, like next to me while I'm working or in the kitchen while I'm cooking. (Means it needs wheels for mobility.)
-Pull up to the dining table so he can eat meals with us. (Means it needs to be adjustable height for different tables and removable tray.)
-Travel to different places with it, like on camping trips and vacations. (Means it needs to fold down portable enough to take on the go.)

What else is important to me in a high chair?
-Easy clean up in the form of removable and washable cushions and a dishwasher safe tray.
-Comfort for long periods of sitting.

But there are so many high chairs on the market, how do you wade through them?  Amazon doesn't give me the option to sort by functionality.  Enter Lela.com.

Plug in the features that are important and voila!  Top 3 picks that meet the criteria of Easy Cleaning, Foldable, Adjustable Seating, Removable Tray and Wheels.

Then, over to Amazon for product reviews and feature verification.

Graco Contempo Highchair: 4.5 stars by 79 customers. The worst review is about how hard it is to clean, how bad it smells, how ugly it is, and the footrest is not adjustable, and how cheap it seems.

Peg Perego Siesta Highchair: 4.5 stars by 51 customers. The worst reviews are about how the cushion is handwash only, the chair is not easy to move around,

Baby Trend Accent Lite High Chair: No reviews. Bizarre.

But what terrible results. With the except of the Peg Perego Siesta, all the options looked so cheap and unattractive. Turns out, a wood high chair was what I really wanted.  And then I consulted DH and he said that the only things that mattered to him was ease of use.  He also negated my idea of needing to travel with it (we have a Summer SuperSeat that converts to a booster for travel), and the need to roll it around because it would stay put at the dinner table. We have other things that BB can sit in if I need him to be next to be in another room. A high chair on wheels, DH reasoned, was less safe that one without. I went back to Lela.com and changed my criteria.

Wood Frame, Easy Cleaning, Adjustable Seating and Removable Tray.

Hauck Alpha Chair: 4.5 stars of 19 reviews. The worst reviews state tray is hard to find (I was unable to find it from a reputable retailer online), the seat step is easily broken and the seat is poorly designed.

OXO Tot Sprout Chair: 4 stars of 222 reviews.  The worst reviews state water gets stuck in the tray, the tray is not machine washable,and differing opinions on how easy the chair and its cushions are to clean.

Svan Signet Complete High Chair: 3.5 stars of 36 reviews.  The worst review state that the wood is of poor quality and the tray is unsafe.  

After watching the OXO video on the Sprout Chair and seeing it in the Taupe/Walnut combination, I knew that was the perfect chair for us! 

What high chair did you choose?

5+ Baby Things I Wouldn't Buy Again

I used almost everything I bought or received, at least for a little bit, and almost everything made short moments in time easier, even the items that so many people think were a waste of money. 

Wipe warmer made BB  much  more pleasant to change in the early days. He would wail when a wet cold wipe hit his bottom. Diaper pail keeps the smell of dirty diapers out of the nursery (we even bought one for my mom's house for when she babysits) even though we cloth diaper 75% of the time.  The bassinet attachment for the stroller made it so easy to go out with BB when in the early days he would need to be changed every 30 minutes and cry if he had any wetness on his diaper at all (changing in the flat bassinet is much easier than trying to find a baby friendly bathroom while trying to get some errands done).

Why did you buy these things, Mommy?

Things I didn't feel were worth it at all:

1. Bottle warmer. We received a bottle warmer for the car. It actually plugs into the phone charger outlet! I BF, but when I pump and use a bottle, it's a Dr. Brown's glass bottle with silicone sleeve and it doesn't fit in the warmer.

2. Sleep sacks. I also have these Halo Sleep Sacks that were gifted to me. BB doesn't sleep in sleep sacks, he sleeps in sleep n plays. I don't think I really even understand sleep sacks because they seem like just a cloth bag for the baby.

3. Too many baby clothes.  And I was warned, repeatedly, that I didn't need that many.  I laughed and just knew it would be worth it when I saw my adorably dressed baby.  I was wrong.

The amount of baby clothes and baby shoes that were never worn or only worn once is pretty staggering.  If I had it to do over again, only one pair of casual shoes and one pair of dressier shoes in each size instead of 10 pairs of adorable shoes in one size. And less of every type of clothes.

4. Non-sleepy time bath products.  BB's bath and lotion are part of his bedtime routine and he falls asleep better with this organic lavender and chamomile based soap and lotion.  I don't even bother with any of the J&J standard products that were gifted to us.

5. Cheap sling, nursing pads, nursing bracelet, nursing cover. A lot of this stuff was "free" but pay for ridiculous shipping. Others I, I bought because it seemed like a good idea bu just didn't need.  The sling didn't actually fit right (I used the moby instead), I never had a leaking problem so all forms of nursing pads were a waste, and wtf who needs a nursing bracelet? But I didn't know that at the time and I never use a nursing cover.  I like to look at BB while he's eating and he hates his head being covered anyway.

What wouldn't you buy again?

Ikea for Tots

I have long been a fan of IKEA's business.  In college, I did a report on the genius of their store design forcing their customers to go through the entire showroom to see the products in action resulting in increased sales.  And who doesn't love an afternoon of Swedish meatballs and cheap home decor?  But up until 3 months ago, I never had the slightest interest in their children's offerings.

Fast forward to my last trip there, I only shopped the children's section which was conveniently located next to the meatballs.

Here is IKEA's statement on their children's toys:

"IKEA toys fulfil the following toy safety requirements around the world:

• European Toy safety standard EN-71 (market with CE-label)
• U.S.A Code of Federal Regulation 16, ASTM F963 and
• Pennsylvania regulation for stuffed toys
• Canada Hazardous Products (Toys) Regulation
• Australian and New Zealand standard AS/NZS ISO 8124
• China GB 6675
• German requirements for saliva and sweat resistance

Because a child may place a toy in his or her mouth, the toy shall not contain harmful levels of toxic substances."

Here are my top picks from the kids section, Baby Buckshot approved:

Book Review: The Happiest Baby On the Block by Dr. Harvey Karp

Parenthood has been filled with conflicting information for a researcher like me. Attachment Parents versus the Ferber Method. Pacifiers, no pacifiers.  Crib sleeping versus co-sleeping. Internet arguments abound.

If there is one thing I would recommend to any parent regardless of their parental leanings, it's The Happiest Baby on the Block.

When DH and I attended the Childcare Basics Class, the most valuable thing to come out of the entire experience, with the exception of maybe DH's phenomenal swaddling skills, was learning the 5 Ss.

Dr. Karp has come up with an effective 5 step method to calm a crying baby whose other needs have already been met, otherwise labeled as colicky babies.  Now, BB doesn't have colic but the 5 Ss did help tremendously in the first couple of days of BB's life when he would cry despite being fed with a dry diaper and well rested.

He explains that many babies experience their first few months as a fourth trimester where they still need to comforts of the womb while they adjust to life and learn more than the basic instincts they're born with.

Swaddling: Babies are used to cramped quarters and enjoy the security of swaddling.  It also inhibits the Moro reflex (that falling feeling you get when you sleep) which can be kept in check if their arms are prevented from jerking around. Dr. Karp explains that though swaddling alone might not calm a screaming baby (in fact, some babies continue to wail when swaddled), it puts them into a setting where they can pay enough attention for the following 4 Ss to take effect.

Below is a video featuring Dr. Karp's swaddling technique.



Side or Stomach Position: Babies in the womb are not sitting upright.  Nor are they laying flat on their back (which triggers the feeling of falling for them).  They find a side lying position or a stomach position more comforting.

Shushing: Contrary to popular belief, silence is not pleasant for babies.  In the womb, they are surrounded by the sound of rushing blood at a very loud level.  Shushing, white noise machines, the sound of rushing water are all familiar sounds to babies that can help to calm them down by making them feel more at home.

Swinging and Swaying: Imagine the feeling of being cradled and swung, like in a hammock.  Such a relaxing feeling.  Well, that has a lot to do with how we felt in the womb.  Babies before birth are used to constant motion and swinging and swaying a baby in a side laying position triggers relaxation for them.

Sucking: Lastly, babies are used to sucking, often on their own hands, in the womb.  It's one of the few instincts they are born with, needed for basic survival.  Dr. Karp recommends offering a clean finger or pacifier if all the previous Ss combined don't work to calm the baby.

The book is an easy read and fairly short though full of lots of anecdotes proving the success of his method which aren't really necessary.

He also includes some parenting tips and serious symptoms to look out for that might be signs of medical issues causing the crying.

I give this book a 5/5 for information, ease of reading and effectiveness. A parenting must read.

Unexpected Baby Must Haves: 1 to 3 months

We registered for over 100 items for baby but 5 of the items I use the most didn't even make it on the list!  Some items were described as frivolous on Internet baby forums, others didn't fit the kind I parent I thought I would be.  

Turns out, no one knows what's needed until you're living with a newborn.   Your own newborn, in your own life. Especially a crying one. But for what it's worth, here's my list of must-haves that I didn't know would be so valuable.

1. Infantino Activity Gym. Between tummy time and developing baby senses, having an activity gym is critical.  This Infantino version is inexpensive and includes the key things I was looking for: a mirror, detachable plush toys, easy fold and compact size for storing.  The cute patterns and quilt like mat are a plus.  $35.87 - Amazon.com. 

2. Munchkin Wipe Warmer. This was one of the items that people repeatedly told me was a waste. "The baby doesn't care," people said.  "It's a waste of money," they said.   You know what BB said? "WAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHH!!!!" at the top of his lungs whenever a cold wipe hit his bottom during changing.  When we started using the wipe warmer, diaper changes (10-15 times a day) became infinitely quieter. $22.56 - Amazon.com. 

3. Munchkin Arm & Hammer Diaper Pail. I thought we were going to cloth diaper from the beginning but it turns out that dealing with a crying newborn doesn't lend itself to doing a lot of laundry.  DH and I agreed we would put off cloth diapering until we got the hang of breastfeeding and night time sleep routine.  Until then, we had a smelly diaper in the nursery problem which was quickly resolved by this diaper pail.  DH says it was his best baby purchase and even instagrammed it.  I call that Husband Approved. $34.99 - Amazon.com. 

4. Contoured Changing Pad. My mom told me I would be changing the baby all over the house from the bed to the couch and whatever flat surface would be nearby.  People said that changing tables were a waste of money.  So I figured a folding changing pad would be portable and more effective.  This was until I realized how much I wanted my little one to be as comfortable as possible.  We picked up this mattress like changing pad with a waterproof surface.  Thankfully we did because BB quickly showed us how far he could pee and the awesomeness of projectile poop.  Changes have been relegated to the nursery with this changing pad on top of an IKEA dresser that easily wipes down.  $18 - Amazon.com.

5. Graco Gliding Swing. I said earlier no one knows what you need but it turns out my mom knew what we needed.  For some reason I thought I swing was an unnecessary luxury.  WRONG. We quickly realized that this gliding swing my mom bought us was one of the best purchases anyone ever made for us in the history of our lives.  Sound dramatic? This swing was critical in getting BB to sleep and a recommended part of sleep training per Dr. Harvey Karp, the smartest parenting book author in my book. $179.99 - Babies R Us. 

What items did you end up using that you didn't know you couldn't live without?

Which Stroller? Peg Perego Book Plus V. Britax B-Ready V. Baby Jogger City Versa

I thought I had this all figured out when I registered.  Peg Perego all the way!  Then I went to Buy Buy Baby just to make sure that I love the stroller and then found 2 more strollers that would be perfect for Little Bean!

Now, I'm back at the beginning of the decision making process.  Since I'm a first time mom, I'm just not sure what things are truly important. 

What I think I want:

- Able to be outward facing or parent facing.

- One hand fold or similarly easy breakdown/fold.

- No need to remove the child seat before breakdown/fold.  (Side note: How does the Bugaboo Chameleon get away with charging over $1000 for a stroller that has so many pieces to take apart?!)

- Go from Infant to Toddler.  Whether by bassinet or by full fold down to accommodate the infant.

- More compact than the Graco and Chicco travel systems and easy to carry.

- Works with a top rated infant carrier car seat.

- Ease of use in terms of swapping the car seat, child seat, etc.

- Standing Fold. I feel like this is more convenient for storage.

- Flat Recline. (I'm not sure how important this is but I'm worried that baby won't be comfortable with the V shaped recline versus full flat recline.)

- To be able to go from 1 child to 2 children with a difference in ages from 1.5-2 years. (Not sure that this is possible after hearing the Buy Buy Baby rep say that most systems like this won't work well with babies that far apart in age because of weight restrictions.)

Here's how the three contenders compare: 

Features	Peg Perego Book Plus	Britax B- Ready	Baby Jogger City Versa
Both Forward Facing and Rear Facing	Yes	Yes	Yes
One Hand Fold	Yes	No	Yes
Leave the Child Seat During Fold	Yes	Yes	Yes
Infant to Toddler Range	Yes	Yes	Yes
Compact and Light Weight	Middle	Heaviest	Lightest
Works with Top Rated Infant Carrier Car Seat	Yes	Yes	Yes
Ease of Use	Easiest	Middle	Middle
Standing Fold	Yes	Yes	No
Full Flat Recline	Yes	No	No
Multiple Child Option	No	Yes	No
Requires Bassinet for Infant	No	Yes	Yes
Weight Capacity	45 lbs	55 lbs	50 lbs
Warranty	1 Year	2 Year	Limited Lifetime Frame
Total System Cost	$769	$761	$806

Peg Perego Book Plus

Pros:
-The easiest system to use with a compatible infant carrier car seat.   

- Does not require a bassinet attachment to accommodate a newborn since it fully reclines flat and creates a bassinet like environment. (Bassinet attachment available.)
- Does not require a car seat adapter.
- Can be rolled on wheels when folded down. 

Cons: 
- Does not turn into a 2 child stroller.
- Feels a little cheaper than the other 2 options. 

Video Review from Baby Gizmo: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O_F064gVknE

Weight limit: 45 lbs.

1 year warranty.  

Price: $499 to go from infant to toddler with car seat capability. $270 for the compatible car seat. $769 for the full system.

Britax B-Ready

Pros: 
- Goes to 2 child configuration.
- Has 14 different configurations.

Cons:
- Larger than the others when folded down.
- Harder to fold down and open up.
- Does not recline fully flat.
- Requires infant car seat adapter.
- Requires bassinet to accommodate an infant without the car seat.

Video Review from Baby Gizmo: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yfG2IfKyKtc

Weight limit: 55 lbs.

2 year Warranty. 

Price: $440 for the stroller. $155 for the bassinet to accommodate an infant. $166 for the compatible infant carrier car seat.   $761 for the full system.

Baby Jogger City Versa

Pros: 
- Lifetime warranty on the frame.
- Folds down the EASIEST of all three options.
- Best suspension of the three options.
- DH loved the look of this stroller the most. 

Cons:
- Does not do 2 child configuration.
- Does not recline fully flat.
- Requires infant car seat adapter.  The WORST adapter to use of all three options.
- Requires bassinet to accommodate an infant without the car seat.

Video Review from Baby Gizmo: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jKAnhKsc1Ik

Weight Limit: 50 lbs.

Lifetime warranty on the frame.

Price: $400 for the stroller. $180 for the bassinet to accommodate an infant. $60 car seat adapter. $166 for compatible car seat. $806 for the full system.

Decisions, decisions.  

Update: We ended up buying the Britax B-Ready during the Free Ride Event and got the B-Safe carseat for free!

Rocking Chairs for the Nursery

Originally I wanted a rocker-recliner in the nursery.  But the more I thought about it the more I realized that I hate the look of even the rocker-recliner I originally picked out.  Does it really need to recline anyway?  Can't my little ottoman poufs do the foot supporting work of a recliner?

And then I saw all these adorable rockers and realized it's time to go back to the drawing board with this item in the nursery.  Here's what I found:

1. Rockabye Bella Velvet Grand Glider. Glamorous and traditional, the tufted back with the velvet upholstery would make this an interesting twist to my cheery semi-modern nursery design. Texture goes a long way in teaching babies about the world right? $580.

2. Nurserywork Sleepytime Rocker.  Truth be told, this is the rocking chair that changed my mind.  Transitional in style, it would move seamlessly from the nursery to the living room or my craft room if I were in the mood to turn a night with my Cricut into a rocking good time after the Little Bean is grown. $499.

3. Nurseryworks Empire Rocking Chair. This chair combines the pretty rocking chair bottom of the Sleepytime Rocker with the glam of the Rockabye Bella Glider.  It's a rocking chair fit for a queen, if the queen were modern and slightly edgy. $800.

4. Eames Molded Plastic Armchair Rocker.  This is the rocking chair darling of design lovers, mid century modernists and minimalists across the board.  Easy to clean, beautiful lines and the timeless look of an Eames classic. $548.

5. Dorel Rocking Chair with Slipcover.  Its clean lines, roomy structure and variety of colors make this so practical.  Plus slipcover allows for easy clean-up while the price is extremely low for an upholstered rocking chair. $199.

Decisions, decisions.

Unisex Nursery Decor

My anatomy scan won't be for another 2 days so I thought I'd mock up a nursery idea before finding out the baby's gender.  I have considered just going in a unisex direction, regardless of the results of the gender, so that we can reuse a lot of the nursery decor for the next baby and to avoid those pesky gender roles.

DH and I have tossed around the idea of a nerdy nursery theme like Super Mario Bros (Mario/Luigi skewed if a boy or Princess Peach skewed if a girl) but I don't know that I want to sit in a video game set in the middle of the night while breastfeeding and sleep deprived.  We also considered a Dr. Who theme, complete with a Tardis and a crack in the wall but we all know that would just take too much timey wimey.

Here is my Unisex Nursery Decor detail:

1. Land of Nod Letter Garland:  This adorably customizable letter garland can spell out anything from "Welcome Home Little Bean" or you know, the baby's actual name.  Unless the baby's name is Little Bean, then my original wording recommendation stands. $17.

2. Pottery Barn Kids Numbered Pulls. I found them online and they might be discontinued but I love these number pulls.  I'd like to add them to the Malm Dresser from IKEA to make it a little more nursery friendly.

3. IKEA Malm Dresser. This seems to be the modern nursery's staple.  It's clean lines, easily customizable face (see the PBK Numbered Pulls above) and low price makes it a go to choice for a lot of families. $139.

4. Grey and White Chevron Rug.  I'm on the fence about putting a rug on the carpet but this chevron pattern would add a much needed pop to the otherwise design neglected floor. Plus, it's easier to wash and sanitize a carpet than constantly shampoo the carpet in the Little One's room right?  $140.

5. CB2 Knit Poufs. I'm going to let you in on a little secret.  I was thinking about knitting my own poufs so I can get them in the colors I wanted until I found out that to buy the yarn and stuffing, invest the time in learning how to properly tension my knitting and build the loom would far out-price the cost of me just heading over to my local CB2 and buying them.  And turns out CB2 does make them in the colors I want. Lucky day. $90.

6.babyletto Hudson 3-in-1 Convertible Crib. Don't think it's all about looks with this mid century crib.  No, it's also lead and phthalate safe and has a non-toxic finish.  Ok, you got me, the modern grey color with the whimsical design doesn't hurt either.  $399. 

7. Klaussner Tufted Rocking Recliner. I'm not 100% in love with this recliner but I do want a rocker recliner in cream or white for the nursery.  It seems like a pretty tough category to fill since so many recliners are butt ugly.  This one makes me want to vomit the least.  $420.

8. Frandsen Pendant Lights. Pairing 3 of these lights over the a recliner that doesn't make me vomit would be the cat's pajamas. Forget chandeliers in the nursery, ball pendant lights in bright poppy colors add the perfect punch for baby's bedroom. $91 each or $273 as displayed.

9. Children's Book Covers in Album Frames. I debated myself over and over again about the wall decor of the nursery.  Wall stencils?  Wallpaper? Paint effects?  Wall decals?  The options are endless.  But what would be just perfect?  A wall filled with album covers first filled with covers of our favorite children's books. As the baby grows, the contents of the frames can change.  $16 each or $192 as displayed.
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First Trimester Purchases

In going with traditional Chinese superstition, I resisted the urge to buy things for the baby but as my first trimester proved to be uncomfortable, I had to pick up a few essentials. 

1. Jumper Prenatal Heart Listener/Detector. This is also known as a fetal heart doppler.  This is really a must have for anyone who has previously suffered a loss.  Being able to hear the heartbeat at around 10 weeks, between doctor's visits, especially when it's too early to feel any movements did a lot for my peace of mind.

There are other dopplers that will do things like track the Beats Per Minute of the heartbeat, compare records, or are hospital grade which allows for better detection of the heartbeat.  Those are higher in price and weren't necessary for me.  I just wanted to be able to check in and make sure all was well with the little bean. $28.18 at Amazon.

2. Nursing Bras.  I was told that my cup size would change wildly between pregnancy and breastfeeding.  Well, I ended up needing new bras pretty early on in my first trimester as I had gone up a cup size. Instead of buying regular bras, however, I opted for nursing bras so that I would have a large number and variety of them by the time breastfeeding and constant bra changes from leaking milk became an issue.

Walmart had the cheapest bras but they aren't very flattering.  Target had great bras that were very flattering but a little pricier.  Neither were nearly as expensive or comfortable as my typical Victoria Secret bras. $9.00 for two at Walmart.

3. Crane Drop Shape Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier. There are things people don't tell you about pregnancy.  Like how in the first trimester, there is no glow.  There is merely dryness and sometimes itchiness.  And the dryness doesn't just apply to skin, it goes deep into nostrils and eyes.  A good humidifier helped me tremendously. $45.36 at Amazon.

4.  Leachco Snoogle Total Body Pillow. I used to sleep on my back.  And my stomach.  Sometimes my sides. But because of the Vena Cava, that blood pathway that helps get blood to the Little Bean, left side sleeping is optimal.  After a couple of uncomfortable nights trying to force myself into a left side sleep position, I gave up and bought the Snoogle.  It is by far my favorite First Trimester purchase.  It feels like being cuddled to sleep with the perfect amount of neck/shoulder support. A must have for those who don't naturally side sleep. $47.09 at Amazon.     

5. New Chapter Perfect Prenatals. There are a lot of prenatals out there that make women sick.  So sick in fact, they opt not to take prenatals at all.  These are the only ones that didn't make me sick and didn't require me to eat a meal when at the time I take them since they are made from whole foods already.  They are also organic and gluten free which makes them accessible for everyone!  And if you join Amazon Mom, you'll get 20% off when you order them via Subscribe & Save. $45.29 at Amazon.com    

Maternity Rings: The Solution to Swollen Fingers

Today, at 4 weeks and 5 days, I bought a pregnancy ring to take the place of my wedding ring and engagement ring. Why?  Because I know from my last pregnancy that my digits are about to blow up like sausages.

I thought about putting my engagement and wedding ring on a necklace but a few years ago I lost a diamond solitare necklace at the beach.  I'm three times as forgetful now so I can't imagine not losing my rings this way.

I thought about getting my ring resized but the last time I had my wedding ring resized the inlaid diamond settings became loose and I lost a few diamonds.

So, the solution is obviously to lock up my current rings and use the pregnancy as an excuse to get a whole new ring!  Here are a few rings I've thought about before settling on the Trinity Ring.

Dior Oui Ring.  This has developed into an entire line of bands and engagement ring diamond settings. The price has increased over the years keeping pace with the increase in gold prices.  $650 (the last time I checked.)

Cartier Trinity Ring.  I have thought about getting this ring since we were planning our wedding.   It's both classic in style and versatile in color.  They've extended the line to bracelets and necklaces and now have black and white gold options as well.  $1,000.

Facets Maternity Ring. Turns out some jewelers are cashing in on this swollen fingers problem by developing maternity rings.  Facets makes the rings in 2 different colors (pink and blue) and a few different settings.  I didn't pick pink because I know anything about the gender but because I didn't like the look of blue. $1,533.


Paloma Sugar Stacks Ring. Each ring can be purchased individually and stacked to maximize the chunkiness.  Stacking this many rings normally isn't my style but it's so playful and what better time to take fun loving fashion choices? $600.

I know, I know, it's ludicrous to spend on a temporary ring when we should be saving up for the baby.  There's childcare, college funds and other related expenses to worry about.  But DH said, "Pick something you can pass down to our children.  Or buy a knock-off."

Solutions; that man is full of them.


Note:  These posts have been delayed because we have waited to announce our pregnancy until after the first trimester.

Pre-Seed: Acceptable Lubrication Aid

This post is a little weird for me to write.  I'm not usually one of those ladies who goes to things like Adult Toy Parties.  My Bachelorette Party was relatively penis shape free.  My Bridal Shower was appropriately un-risque. So here's an awkward attempt at talking about lube.

Turns out, lubrication is a typical bedroom mainstay.  Like not at all kinky. Ok, sometimes kinky, unless you're trying to conceive, then it's down to the science of it all. Lubrication is needed to get the sperm to the egg.  The right kind is key.

You see, All Lubrication Is Not Created Equal.

I always thought that as long as the lubricant didn't have spermicide and was water based it would be fine.  Oh so wrong I was. Turns out that a lot of the typical lubricants like Astroglide and KY or even saliva can be causing what couples think are fertility issues.

What?  Even though some doctors recommend the use of lubricants to combat vaginal dryness? Is this why Clomid isn't always working for everyone?  (Clomid causes vaginal dryness in some users that must be supplmented with some form of lubrication.)

Yes, it turns out that some lubricants can be too thick for the sperm to get through.  Other lubricants are too low in pH to achieve the ideal 7.0 to 8.5 pH level sperm can survive in. Water based lubricants often use glycerin which is toxic to the little swimmers. The acid in saliva also causes sperm death.

Upon reading this news I immediately felt like I knew nothing about fertility.  Seriously, something as simple as lube could be standing between me and my baby?  But if I don't have enough lubrication it won't work either? BLAH.

So what do we use?  My doctor recommended Pre-Seed. It's an usually expensive lubrication ($21.99 for 9 applications or $2.44 a use), tested to ensure proper pH, keep sperm alive and to mimic natural vaginal secretions.  I've read tons of positive feedback about this product from numerous women with Big Fat Positives (BFP.)

How's that for sexy?

Prenatal Purchases

Hey tumblr friends!  You know who is awesome?  Karen! When I told her I was preggos she immediately sent me a list of awesome things that might come in handy.  Here are a few items I’ve picked up over the past weeks that I think are awesome.

Karen recommended this because of all the crazy stuff that happens in the frontal region.  It really has helped even though it’s recommended for breast feeding moms and I’m not there yet.

Karen also recommended some kind of shea massage butter.  She used Lush Massage Bar but I couldn’t wait to order it so I went to the store and this was the only one I could find.  I’m going to switch over to Lush once I run out of the Palmer’s.

I can’t even explain how important hydration has been for me.  I get SO thirsty.  But in California every time I buy a water bottle, I spend at least $0.05 on CRV, which I only get back if I recycle it.  But then I end up collecting all these water bottles that pile up in the back of my car in a water bottle recycling box because I don’t find the time to get the recycling done. 

Anyway, this is all resolved with the Bobble.  Made with recycled materials, filters water as I drink it allowing me to fill up anywhere there’s a sink. Lasts for up to 300 bottles which is about $15 in CRV alone and no clutter in my car.

As you might have noticed, I was having a hard time hitting my calcium minimum requirements because dairy and I just weren’t jiving all that well.  J picked me up these chocolate calcium chews that are pretty tasty and I just pop them in when I know I’m short on calcium. 

Side note: My mom made sure she got enough calcium when she was pregnant with my brother.  She didn’t have a chance with me because I was born in a refugee camp and calcium sources just weren’t readily available. And I don’t know that she was super focused on that for my sister (16 years younger than me) who was a surprise. But my brother happens to be 6” taller than the rest of us in the family and super strong.

I immediately started taking prenatals when I found out but I thought it was important to bring up that not all prenatals include Folic Acid and DHA which are both important for neural tube and brain development.  I used One A Day because it included both but it turns out it’s just 2 pill bottles in one box.  Lol.

Will do an update on fitness purchases soon.

First Pregnancy Purchases

Getting my Pregnancy Workout DVDs in the mail. I’ve ordered Summer Sander’s Prenatal Workout and The Perfect Pregnancy Workout. Now I can workout in the warmth of my home.

Buying a Heart Rate Monitor.  Then I can start running again!  Woo hoo!  I’m just looking for something that will keep me in a target zone and give me a calorie read out.  Currently looking at the following:

Puma HRM.  I just love the design of the thing!

Polar HRM. More features, still pretty sleek.

Enrolling in a Prenatal Yoga Class. Freeman Yoga in Fullerton has a promotion going on right now that allows prospective students one free class of their choosing.  Their prenatal yoga class is on Sunday morning which is perfect for my schedule. I’m going next Sunday.  Yay!

Getting Pregnancy Books.  Right now, I’m thinking about foregoing What To Expect While You’re Expecting all together and just sticking with the Mayo Clinic Guide. Any thoughts on this from the beautifully fit mommies out there?